The Pledge by Gilbert Parker (1908)

Name: The Pledge
Author: Gilbert Parker

The Pledge is a novel by Gilbert Parker that tells the story of a young man named John who inherits a large sum of money and decides to use it to help those in need. He travels to various parts of Europe, including France and Italy, where he meets people from all walks of life and learns about their struggles. Along the way, he falls in love with a woman named Marie, who helps him understand the true meaning of charity and compassion. The novel explores themes of social justice, morality, and personal growth, and is considered one of Parker's most important works.

By Gilbert Parker · First published 1908 · Genre: Poetry, Romance, Philosophical · 146 words

First lines

O gifts divine as any ever knew The noble spirits of an antique time; As any poets fashion in their rhyme, Or angels whisper down the shadeless blue!

The priceless gifts of holy confidence, That speak through quivering lips from heart to heart; That unto life new energies impart, And open up the gates of prescience.

O dear my love, I unto thee have given Pledge that I am thy vassal evermore; I stand within the zenith of my Heaven,

On either hand a starred eternal shore I have come nearer to thy greater worth, For thou hast raised me from the common earth.

What this Textopian page supports

The Pledge is listed on Textopian as a novel by Gilbert Parker, dated 1908 CE.

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

Work type: Novel
Author: Gilbert Parker
Date: 1908 CE
Language: English
Genres: Poetry, Romance, Philosophical, Inspirational
Length: 146 words
Structure: 1 section, 4 paragraphs
Reading fit: Fairly Difficult (10th-12th Grade)

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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 rhyme and meter, characteristic of poetic works.
Romance — The themes of love and devotion are central, as evidenced by the speaker's pledge and expressions of affection.
Philosophical — The text explores abstract concepts such as divine gifts, confidence, and prescience, indicating a philosophical undertone.
Inspirational — The language used is uplifting and speaks to personal growth and elevation, suggesting an inspirational genre.