In the Spring by Guy de Maupassant

Name: In the Spring
Author: Guy de Maupassant

The story revolves around a young man who returns to his hometown after being away for several years and becomes infatuated with a woman he had previously known. He tries to rekindle their relationship but she rejects him, leading to a downward spiral of despair and ultimately, tragedy.

By Guy de Maupassant · First published 1880 · Genre: Romance, Comedy, Drama · 2,794 words

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First lines

With the first day of spring, when the awakening earth puts on its garment of green, and the warm, fragrant air fans our faces and fills our lungs and appears even to penetrate to our hearts, we experience a vague, undefined longing for freedom, for happiness, a desire to run, to wander aimlessly, to breathe in the spring. The previous winter having been unusually severe, this spring feeling was like a form of intoxication in May, as if there were an overabundant supply of sap.

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In the Spring is listed on Textopian as a short story by Guy de Maupassant, dated 1880 CE.

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Work type: Short story
Author: Guy de Maupassant
Date: 1880 CE
Language: English
Genres: Romance, Comedy, Drama, Satire, Psychological Fiction
Length: 2,794 words
Structure: 1 section, 42 paragraphs
Reading fit: Fairly Easy (7th Grade)

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Work identity for In the Spring by Guy de Maupassant
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Genres

Romance — The narrative centers around themes of love, attraction, and romantic encounters, particularly the protagonist's infatuation with a young woman.
Comedy — The story contains humorous elements, especially in the interactions and misunderstandings between characters, and the protagonist's internal monologue.
Drama — The plot involves emotional and personal conflicts, such as the protagonist's struggle with his feelings and the warnings about love.
Satire — The narrative critiques societal norms and romantic ideals, using irony and exaggeration to highlight the absurdity of certain behaviors.