I Heard the Desert Calling

Name: I Heard the Desert Calling
Author: Gilbert Parker

I Heard the Desert Calling is a novel by Gilbert Parker that tells the story of a young man named John Beverley who travels to the Sahara desert in search of adventure and self-discovery. The book explores themes of identity, spirituality, and the human experience through Beverley's journey.

By Gilbert Parker · First published 1903 · Genre: Poetry, Romance, Adventure · 211 words

First lines

I heard the desert calling, and my heart stood still -- There was winter in my world and in my heart; A breath came from the mesa, and a message stirred my will, And my soul and I arose up to depart.

I heard the desert calling, and I knew that over there In an olive-sheltered garden where the mesquite grows, Was a woman of the sunrise with the star-shine in her hair And a beauty that the almond-blossom blows.

In the night-time when the ghost-trees glimmered in the moon, Where the mesa by the water-course was spanned, Her loveliness enwrapped me like the blessedness of June, And all my life was thrilling in her hand.

What this Textopian page supports

I Heard the Desert Calling is listed on Textopian as a poem 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: Poem
Author: Gilbert Parker
Date: 1903 CE
Language: English
Genres: Poetry, Romance, Adventure, Nature, Spiritual
Length: 211 words
Structure: 1 section, 4 paragraphs
Reading fit: Fairly Easy (7th Grade)

Good citation fit

Work identity for I Heard the Desert Calling by Gilbert Parker
Canonical title URL and first readable passage URL
Genre and topic classification from the Textopian catalog
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Discussion starters

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Similar titles

Genres

Poetry — The text is structured in verse form with a rhythmic and lyrical quality, characteristic of poetry.
Romance — The themes of love and longing are central, focusing on a deep emotional connection with a woman.
Adventure — The narrative involves a journey or departure, suggesting an element of exploration or adventure.
Nature — The imagery and setting are heavily influenced by natural elements like the desert, mesa, and olive garden.