A Cry of Alarm by Guy De Maupassant
The story revolves around a young woman who becomes infatuated with an older man and begins to pursue him relentlessly. Despite his initial reluctance, he eventually succumbs to her advances and they begin a romantic relationship. However, the woman's obsession soon turns into madness, and she starts to exhibit erratic behavior, becoming increasingly possessive and violent towards her lover. The man tries to escape from her grasp but is unable to shake off her influence. As the story unfolds, it becomes clear that the woman's actions are driven by a deep-seated desire for control and possession, which ultimately leads to tragic consequences.
By Guy De Maupassant · First published 1883 · Genre: Literary Fiction, Social Commentary, Psychological Fiction · 2,755 words
First lines
I have received the following letter. Thinking that it may be of help to many of my readers, I hasten to make it known to them.
What this Textopian page supports
A Cry of Alarm is listed on Textopian as a short story by Guy De Maupassant, dated 1883 CE.
This source record anchors work identity, reading entry points, and catalog context for checking claims about the work.
- Work type: Short story
- Author: Guy De Maupassant
- Date: 1883 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Literary Fiction, Social Commentary, Psychological Fiction, Drama, Romance
- Length: 2,755 words
- Structure: 1 section, 3 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Easy (6th Grade)
Good citation fit
- Work identity for A Cry of Alarm by Guy De Maupassant
- Canonical title URL and first readable passage URL
- Genre and topic classification from the Textopian catalog
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Discussion starters
- What should a reader notice first when entering A Cry of Alarm?
- How does this short story by Guy De Maupassant fit its genre, period, or classroom use?
- Where does Literary Fiction first become important in the reading?
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Genres
- Literary Fiction — The work explores complex themes of morality, relationships, and human psychology through a nuanced narrative style.
- Social Commentary — It critiques societal norms and the dynamics between men and women, particularly regarding fidelity and deception.
- Psychological Fiction — The narrative delves into the inner thoughts and motivations of the characters, particularly the male protagonist's insecurities and perceptions.
- Drama — The story contains dramatic elements, particularly in the interactions between the characters and the emotional tension that arises.
Tags
French Literature · Realism · Psychological Fiction · Short Story Collection · Social Commentary · Critique of Bourgeoisie · Existential Crisis · Mental Illness · Isolation · Loneliness · Despair · Frustration