Mother and Mate by Gilbert Frankau
Mother and Mate is a novel by Gilbert Frankau that explores the complex relationship between a mother and her son. The story follows the life of Mrs. Fane, a wealthy widow who struggles to connect with her only child, Richard. As Richard grows up and becomes involved in politics, he begins to question his mother's values and beliefs, leading to a series of confrontations that threaten their relationship. Ultimately, the novel explores themes of family, identity, and the search for meaning in life.
By Gilbert Frankau · First published 1927 · Genre: Poetry, Drama, Family · 181 words
First lines
Lightly she slept, that splendid mother mine Who faced death, undismayed, two hopeless years. ("Think of me sometimes, son, but not with tears Lest my soul grieve," she writes. Oh, this divine Unselfishness! ).
Her favourite print smiled down -- The stippled Cupid, Bartolozzi-brown -- Upon my sorrow. Fire-gleams, fitful, played Among her playthings -- Toby mugs and jade.
And then I dreamed that -- suddenly, strangely clear -- A voice I knew not, faltered at my ear: "Courage! ". Your own dear voice, loved since, and known!
And now that she sleeps well, come times _her_ voice Whispers in day-dreams: "Courage, son! Rejoice That, leaving you, I left you not alone. "
What this Textopian page supports
Mother and Mate is listed on Textopian as a short story by Gilbert Frankau, dated 1927 CE.
This source record anchors work identity, reading entry points, and catalog context for checking claims about the work.
- Work type: Short story
- Author: Gilbert Frankau
- Date: 1927 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Poetry, Drama, Family, Inspirational, Psychological
- Length: 181 words
- Structure: 1 section, 4 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Very Easy (5th Grade or below)
Good citation fit
- Work identity for Mother and Mate by Gilbert Frankau
- 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 Mother and Mate?
- How does this short story by Gilbert Frankau fit its genre, period, or classroom use?
- Where does Poetry first become important in the reading?
Similar titles
- The Passing by Gilbert Parker
- Michael by E. F. Benson
- Recognition by Gilbert Parker
- His Wedded Wife by Rudyard Kipling
- Whoso Findeth A Wife by William Le Queux
- The Courtship Of Susan Bell by Anthony Trollope
Genres
- Poetry — The text is structured in verse form, with a focus on rhythm and meter, characteristic of poetry.
- Drama — The emotional intensity and exploration of themes such as death and courage suggest dramatic elements.
- Family — The central relationship between the narrator and their mother highlights familial themes.
- Inspirational — The themes of courage and unselfishness provide an uplifting and motivational tone.
Tags
family · relationships · love · conflict · drama · identity · betrayal · society · gender roles · emotional struggle · personal growth · historical context