A Farewell from the Harem

Name: A Farewell from the Harem
Author: Gilbert Parker

A Farewell to the Harem by Gilbert Parker is a novel set in the Ottoman Empire during the late 19th century. The story follows the life of a young woman named Zuleika, who is taken from her family and forced into the harem of Sultan Abdul Hamid II. As she navigates the complex politics and intrigues of the palace, Zuleika falls in love with a handsome officer named Selim. However, their romance is threatened by the jealousies and machinations of other members of the court. In the end, Zuleika must make a difficult choice between her love for Selim and her loyalty to the Sultan.

By Gilbert Parker · First published 1903 · Genre: Poetry, Romance, Drama · 140 words

First lines

Take thou thy flight, O soul! Thou hast no more The gladness of the morning: ah, the perfumed roses My love laid on my bosom as I slept!

How did he wake me with his lips upon mine eyes, How did the singers carol, the singers of my soul, That nest among the thoughts of my beloved!

All silent now, the choruses are gone, The windows of my soul are closed; no more Mine eyes look gladly out to see my lover come.

There is no more to do, no more to say Take flight, my soul, my love returns no more!

What this Textopian page supports

A Farewell from the Harem is listed on Textopian as a short story by Gilbert Parker, dated 1903 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 Parker
Date: 1903 CE
Language: English
Genres: Poetry, Romance, Drama, Historical Fiction
Length: 140 words
Structure: 1 section, 4 paragraphs
Reading fit: Very Easy (5th Grade or below)

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Discussion starters

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Similar titles

Genres

Poetry — The text is structured in verse form, with a focus on lyrical expression and emotional depth.
Romance — The themes revolve around love, longing, and emotional connection, central to romantic literature.
Drama — The narrative conveys intense emotional experiences and personal conflict, characteristic of dramatic works.
Historical Fiction — The setting and context suggest a historical backdrop, typical of historical fiction, though less emphasized than other elements.