Rust by Guy De Maupassant (1881)
The novel revolves around a young man who returns to his family's estate after being away for several years. He is struggling with feelings of guilt and shame due to an event from his past that he has kept hidden. Upon his return, the young man becomes increasingly isolated and withdrawn, unable to connect with his family or the people around him. His relationships deteriorate, particularly with his sister, who is aware of his dark secret. As the story unfolds, it becomes clear that the young man's guilt and shame are rooted in a tragic event from his past, which he has been trying to keep hidden. The novel builds towards a devastating conclusion, as the truth about the young man's past is finally revealed. The novel explores themes of isolation, guilt, and the destructive power of secrets. It is a dark and haunting tale that delves into the complexities of human psychology and the devastating consequences of unchecked emotions.
By Guy De Maupassant · First published 1881 · Genre: Literary Fiction, Romance, Comedy · 3,132 words
Editions
First lines
During his whole life, he had had only one insatiable passion, love of sport. He went out every day, from morning till night, with the greatest ardour, in summer and winter, spring and autumn, on the marshes, when it was close time on the plains and in the woods. He shot, he hunted, he coursed, he ferreted and trapped both birds and animals; he spoke of nothing but shooting and hunting, he dreamt of it, and continually repeated:
"How miserable any man must be who does not care for sport!"
What this Textopian page supports
Rust is listed on Textopian as a short story by Guy De Maupassant, dated 1881 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: 1881 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Literary Fiction, Romance, Comedy, Drama, Adventure
- Length: 3,132 words
- Structure: 1 section, 59 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Standard (8th-9th Grade)
Good citation fit
- Work identity for Rust 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
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Genres
- Literary Fiction — The work explores complex characters and themes, focusing on personal relationships and societal norms.
- Romance — The narrative centers around the romantic entanglements and emotional developments of the protagonist.
- Comedy — The story contains humorous elements, particularly in the protagonist's interactions and misunderstandings.
- Drama — The plot involves serious themes of love, aging, and personal conflict, creating dramatic tension.
Tags
French Literature · Realism · Psychological Fiction · Short Story Collection · Social Commentary · Critique of Bourgeoisie · Existential Crisis · Alienation · Loneliness · Isolation · Mental Health · Disease