The Parting of Ways
The Parting of Ways is a collection of poems by George William Russell that explores themes of love, loss, and the human condition. The book includes works such as "The Passing of the Year" and "The Mistress of Vision."
By George William Russell · First published 1906 · Genre: Poetry, Philosophical, Romantic · 267 words
First lines
The skies from black to pearly grey Had veered without a star or sun; Only a burning opal ray Fell on your brow when all was done.
Aye, after victory, the crown; Yet through the fight no word of cheer; And what would win and what go down No word could help, no light make clear.
A thousand ages onward led Their joys and sorrows to that hour; No wisdom weighed, no word was said, For only what we were had power.
There was no tender leaning there Of brow to brow in loving mood; For we were rapt apart, and were In elemental solitude.
What this Textopian page supports
The Parting of Ways is listed on Textopian as a poem by George William Russell, dated 1906 CE.
This source record anchors work identity, reading entry points, and catalog context for checking claims about the work.
- Work type: Poem
- Author: George William Russell
- Date: 1906 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Poetry, Philosophical, Romantic, Symbolism, Mystical
- Length: 267 words
- Structure: 1 section, 7 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Fairly Easy (7th Grade)
Good citation fit
- Work identity for The Parting of Ways by George William Russell
- Canonical title URL and first readable passage URL
- Genre and topic classification from the Textopian catalog
- Readability and classroom-planning context
- Passage-specific claims should cite the exact /read/ URL for the relevant chapter or paragraph
Discussion starters
- What should a reader notice first when entering The Parting of Ways?
- How does this poem by George William Russell fit its genre, period, or classroom use?
- Where does Poetry first become important in the reading?
Similar titles
- Day by George William Russell
- Dawn by George William Russell
- At One by George William Russell
- The Morning Star by George William Russell
- By The Margin Of The Great Deep by George William Russell
- The Vesture Of The Soul by George William Russell
Genres
- Poetry — The text is structured in verse form with a focus on rhythm and imagery, characteristic of poetry.
- Philosophical — Themes of existential reflection and the nature of victory and solitude suggest a philosophical exploration.
- Romantic — The mention of love and emotional connections indicates elements of romantic themes.
- Symbolism — The use of symbolic imagery, such as 'burning opal ray' and 'sunrise-coloured flame,' points to a symbolic style.
Tags
spirituality · philosophy · mysticism · Irish literature · poetry · nature · self-discovery · transcendence · inner journey · symbolism · imagination · consciousness