Barnabas by Helen Hay Whitney (1900)

Name: Barnabas
Author: Helen Hay Whitney

The novel revolves around the life of Barnabas, a young man who returns to his hometown after serving in World War I. He struggles with the trauma and disillusionment he experienced during the war, which affects his relationships with those around him. Barnabas's interactions with his family and friends are strained, as they struggle to understand his changed behavior. His relationships with women are also complicated, particularly with a young woman named Mary, who represents innocence and purity. Throughout the novel, Barnabas grapples with feelings of guilt, shame, and regret over his experiences during the war. He is haunted by memories of the atrocities he witnessed and participated in, which have left him feeling disconnected from society. The novel explores themes of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), the effects of war on individuals and communities, and the struggle to reintegrate into civilian life after experiencing trauma.

By Helen Hay Whitney · First published 1900 · Genre: Poetry, Tragedy, Philosophical · 138 words

First lines

They all are dead but Barnabas; he'll wait, With his old groping hands and haggard eyes, Which nothing in the world can now surprise, Till the last leaf whirls thro' the clanging gate Of the last sunrise. Did he learn too late? Maybe, that one may hear the moans and cries That ring by night, and yet be calm and wise. And teach the women how a man can hate!

I did not think a soul could live so long, And be so little. He remembers youth With a wry smile of disbelief; the wrong Was this, he squeezed the fruit so dry So long ago; and now must live, forsooth Because a woman will not let him die.

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Barnabas is listed on Textopian as a poem by Helen Hay Whitney, dated 1900 CE.

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Work type: Poem
Author: Helen Hay Whitney
Date: 1900 CE
Language: English
Genres: Poetry, Tragedy, Philosophical, Psychological
Length: 138 words
Structure: 1 section, 2 paragraphs
Reading fit: Very Easy (5th Grade or below)

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Genres

Poetry — The text is structured in verse form, utilizing poetic devices such as rhyme and meter.
Tragedy — Themes of death, regret, and the futility of life are central to the narrative.
Philosophical — Explores existential questions about life, death, and the human condition.
Psychological — Focuses on the internal struggles and emotional state of the character Barnabas.