Proem by Gilbert Parker (1894)

The novel Proem, written by Gilbert Parker, follows the story of a young man named John who sets out on a journey to find his true identity and purpose in life. Along the way, he encounters various characters who help him discover different aspects of himself and teach him valuable lessons about life. The book is known for its philosophical themes and exploration of human nature.

By Gilbert Parker · First published 1894 · Genre: Philosophical, Spiritual, Poetic · 160 words

First lines

And the Angel said: "What hast thou for all thy travail -- what dost thou bring with thee out of the dust of the world?"

And the man answered: "Behold, I bring one perfect yesterday!"

And the Angel questioned: "Hast thou then no to-morrow?

Hast thou no hope?"

What this Textopian page supports

Proem is listed on Textopian as a short story by Gilbert Parker, dated 1894 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: 1894 CE
• Language: English
• Genres: Philosophical, Spiritual, Poetic, Reflective
• Length: 160 words
• Structure: 1 section, 8 paragraphs
• Reading fit: Very Easy (5th Grade or below)

Good citation fit

• Work identity for Proem by Gilbert Parker
• 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 Proem?
• How does this short story by Gilbert Parker fit its genre, period, or classroom use?
• Where does Philosophical first become important in the reading?

Similar titles

• The Poet And The Fountain by Arthur Willis Colton
• A Prelude by Francis Sherman
• Two Rondels by George Macdonald
• To Aubrey De Vere by George Macdonald
• The Boredom Of Butterflies by G. K. Chesterton
• Four Sonnets by George Macdonald

Genres

• Philosophical — The text explores existential themes and questions about life, memory, and hope.
• Spiritual — The dialogue with an Angel suggests a spiritual or metaphysical exploration.
• Poetic — The writing style is lyrical and metaphorical, resembling poetry.
• Reflective — The focus on memory and introspection indicates a reflective nature.

Tags

literature · poetry · prose · nature · philosophy · reflection · beauty · imagination · emotion · art · inspiration · creativity

More by Gilbert Parker

• The Power And The Glory (1925)
• Pierre and his People, Volume 1 (1895)
• Pierre and his People, Volume 2 (1904)
• Pierre and his People, Volume 3 (1904)
• Pierre and his People, Volume 4 (1905)
• Pierre and his People, Volume 5 (1904)
• A Romany of the Snows, Volume 1 (1897)
• A Romany of the Snows, Volume 2 (1907)
• All works by Gilbert Parker