A Father's Confession
The story revolves around a father who confesses to his son that he has committed a murder. The confession is made in the hope of preparing the son for the inevitable consequences of his own actions, which will soon be revealed. The narrative explores themes of guilt, responsibility, and the complexities of human relationships.
By Guy de Maupassant · First published 1889 · Genre: Psychological Fiction, Drama, Crime Fiction · 3,552 words
First lines
All Veziers-le-Rethel had followed the funeral procession of M. Badon-Leremince to the grave, and the last words of the funeral oration pronounced by the delegate of the district remained in the minds of all: "He was an honest man, at least!"
An honest man he had been in all the known acts of his life, in his words, in his examples, his attitude, his behavior, his enterprises, in the cut of his beard and the shape of his hats. He never had said a word that did not set an example, never had given an alms without adding a word of advice, never had extended his hand without appearing to bestow a benediction.
What this Textopian page supports
A Father's Confession is listed on Textopian as a short story by Guy de Maupassant, dated 1889 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: 1889 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Psychological Fiction, Drama, Crime Fiction, Tragedy, Realism
- Length: 3,552 words
- Structure: 1 section, 60 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Easy (6th Grade)
Good citation fit
- Work identity for A Father's Confession by Guy de Maupassant
- 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 A Father's Confession?
- How does this short story by Guy de Maupassant fit its genre, period, or classroom use?
- Where does Psychological Fiction first become important in the reading?
Similar titles
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Genres
- Psychological Fiction — Explores the inner turmoil and moral conflict of the protagonist, focusing on his mental state and emotional struggles.
- Drama — Centers on intense emotional and relational conflicts, particularly within a family setting.
- Crime Fiction — Involves a crime that significantly impacts the protagonist's life and the narrative.
- Tragedy — Depicts the downfall and suffering of the protagonist due to his actions and decisions.
Tags
Psychological Fiction · Short Story · Realism · French Literature · 19th Century · Literary Classic · Social Commentary · Family Drama · Father-Son Relationship · Confessional Narrative · Morality Tale · Existential Crisis