After by Gilbert Parker (1905)

Name: After
Author: Gilbert Parker

The novel After, written by Gilbert Parker, tells the story of a young man named John who returns to his hometown after being away for several years. Upon his return, he discovers that many things have changed and must navigate through the challenges of reconnecting with old friends and family members while also trying to find his place in the world. The book explores themes of identity, belonging, and the passage of time.

By Gilbert Parker · First published 1905 · Genre: Poetry, Symbolism, Philosophical · 236 words

First lines

Bands broken, cords loosened, and all Set free. Well, I know That I turned my cold face to the wall, Was silent, strove, gasped, then there fell A numbness, a faintness, a spell Of blindness, hung as a pall, On me, falling low, And a far fading sound of a knell.

Then a fierce stretching of hands In gloom; and my feet, Treading tremulous over hard sands; A wind that wailed wearily slow, A plashing of waters below, A twilight on bleak lone lands, Spread out; and a sheet Of the moaning sea shallows aflow.

What this Textopian page supports

After is listed on Textopian as a poem by Gilbert Parker, dated 1905 CE.

This source record anchors work identity, reading entry points, and catalog context for checking claims about the work.

Work type: Poem
Author: Gilbert Parker
Date: 1905 CE
Language: English
Genres: Poetry, Symbolism, Philosophical, Romanticism
Length: 236 words
Structure: 1 section, 3 paragraphs
Reading fit: Standard (8th-9th Grade)

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Similar titles

Genres

Poetry — The text is structured in verse form with a focus on rhythm, meter, and imagery, characteristic of poetry.
Symbolism — The use of symbolic imagery such as 'cold face to the wall' and 'shadow that heeds' suggests deeper meanings beyond the literal.
Philosophical — Themes of existential reflection and the journey of life are present, indicating a philosophical exploration.
Romanticism — The emphasis on emotion, nature, and the sublime aligns with Romantic literary traditions.