Signals by Gilbert Frankau (1934)
The novel Signals by Gilbert Frankau follows the story of a young woman named Diana who becomes involved in espionage during World War II. The book explores themes of love, betrayal, and loyalty as Diana navigates her way through dangerous situations while trying to uncover secrets that could help the Allied forces win the war.
By Gilbert Frankau · First published 1934 · Genre: War Poetry, Historical Fiction, Lyric Poetry · 400 words
First lines
The hot wax drips from the flares On the scrawled pink forms that litter The bench where he sits; the glitter Of stars is framed by the sandbags atop of the dug-out stairs.
And the lagging watch-hands creep; And his cloaked mates murmur in sleep, -- Forms he can wake with a kick, -- And he hears, as he plays with the pressel-switch, the strapped receiver click On his ear that listens, listens; And the candle-flicker glistens On the rounded brass of the switch-board where the red wires cluster thick.
What this Textopian page supports
Signals is listed on Textopian as a poem by Gilbert Frankau, dated 1934 CE.
This source record anchors work identity, reading entry points, and catalog context for checking claims about the work.
- Work type: Poem
- Author: Gilbert Frankau
- Date: 1934 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: War Poetry, Historical Fiction, Lyric Poetry, Psychological Fiction
- Length: 400 words
- Structure: 1 section, 4 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Very Confusing
Good citation fit
- Work identity for Signals 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 Signals?
- How does this poem by Gilbert Frankau fit its genre, period, or classroom use?
- Where does War Poetry first become important in the reading?
Similar titles
- The Message by Gilbert Parker
- Carnacs Folly Volume 2 by Gilbert Parker
- No Defense Volume 3 by Gilbert Parker
- No Defense Volume 1 by Gilbert Parker
- Unavailing by Gilbert Parker
- Close Up by Gilbert Parker
Genres
- War Poetry — The text is set in a wartime environment, focusing on the experiences and emotions of soldiers, with vivid imagery of the battlefield and communication lines.
- Historical Fiction — The setting and context are rooted in a specific historical period, likely World War I, reflecting the realities and technologies of the time.
- Lyric Poetry — The writing style is poetic, with a focus on rhythm, sound, and imagery, conveying personal and emotional experiences.
- Psychological Fiction — The narrative delves into the mental state and perceptions of the protagonist, exploring themes of tension and vigilance.
Tags
communication · relationships · society · conflict · human emotions · psychological drama · family dynamics · mystery · suspense · social commentary · personal growth · identity