That Costly Ride
The story revolves around a young man who becomes infatuated with a woman and decides to pursue her, despite knowing she is already engaged to be married. He spends all his money on lavish gifts and gestures in an attempt to win her affection, but ultimately realizes too late that his efforts have been futile.
By Guy de Maupassant · First published 1883 · Genre: Realism, Drama, Social Commentary · 2,999 words
First lines
The household lived frugally on the meager income derived from the husband's insignificant appointments. Two children had been born of the marriage, and the earlier condition of the strictest economy had become one of quiet, concealed, shamefaced misery, the poverty of a noble family -- which in spite of misfortune never forgets its rank.
Hector de Gribelin had been educated in the provinces, under the paternal roof, by an aged priest. His people were not rich, but they managed to live and to keep up appearances.
What this Textopian page supports
That Costly Ride 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: Realism, Drama, Social Commentary, Tragedy, Satire
- Length: 2,999 words
- Structure: 1 section, 101 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Fairly Easy (7th Grade)
Good citation fit
- Work identity for That Costly Ride 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 That Costly Ride?
- How does this short story by Guy de Maupassant fit its genre, period, or classroom use?
- Where does Realism first become important in the reading?
Similar titles
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- The Peddler by Guy De Maupassant
Genres
- Realism — The narrative focuses on the everyday life and struggles of a middle-class family, highlighting social issues and the harsh realities of life.
- Drama — The story revolves around the emotional and financial turmoil faced by the protagonist and his family, creating a dramatic tension throughout.
- Social Commentary — The text critiques societal norms and the class system, particularly the struggles of maintaining appearances despite financial hardship.
- Tragedy — The protagonist's attempt to provide a simple pleasure for his family leads to unforeseen consequences, resulting in a tragic outcome.
Tags
French Literature · Short Story Collection · Realism · Psychological Insight · Social Commentary · Morality Tale · Human Nature · Emotional Depth · Philosophical Themes · Existential Crisis · Moral Ambiguity · Character Study