Age by Helen Hay Whitney (1903)

Name: Age
Author: Helen Hay Whitney

The novel revolves around the life of a young woman who marries an older man and moves to his estate. She struggles with her new role and the societal expectations placed upon her. The story explores themes of identity, class, and relationships.

By Helen Hay Whitney · First published 1903 · Genre: Poetry, Philosophical, Melancholic · 131 words

First lines

Blindness, and women wailing on white seas, Seas where no placid sails have ever been, Dreams like wan demons on waste marshes seen Thro' dulling, fevered eyes. The dregs and lees Of wine long spilt to dead divinities. Grey, empty days when Spring is never green, Can the heart answer what these riddles mean -- Can the life hold such hopelessness as these?

Love lying low in the long pleasant grass, Youth with his eager face against the sun, They may not guess the hours when these shall pass,

In what drear coin such lovely dreams are paid, At what grim cost their flowery days are won, When man is old and lonely and afraid.

What this Textopian page supports

Age is listed on Textopian as a poem by Helen Hay Whitney, dated 1903 CE.

This source record anchors work identity, reading entry points, and catalog context for checking claims about the work.

Work type: Poem
Author: Helen Hay Whitney
Date: 1903 CE
Language: English
Genres: Poetry, Philosophical, Melancholic, Reflective
Length: 131 words
Structure: 1 section, 3 paragraphs
Reading fit: Easy (6th Grade)

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How does this poem by Helen Hay Whitney fit its genre, period, or classroom use?
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Similar titles

Genres

Poetry — The work is structured in verse form, utilizing poetic devices such as imagery, metaphor, and rhythm.
Philosophical — The themes explore existential questions about life, aging, and the passage of time.
Melancholic — The tone and mood are somber, reflecting on themes of hopelessness and fear of aging.
Reflective — The work invites introspection on the nature of youth, love, and the inevitable approach of old age.