By the Western Gate

Name: By the Western Gate
Author: Helen Hay Whitney

The novel revolves around a young woman's journey of self-discovery and growth as she navigates her relationships with others and grapples with the societal expectations placed upon her. It explores themes of identity, morality, and the constraints of social class, highlighting the tensions between personal desire and external obligations. Through its portrayal of complex characters and their interactions, the novel critiques the limitations imposed by traditional values and conventions, offering a nuanced exploration of the human experience.

By Helen Hay Whitney · First published 1907 · Genre: Poetry, Romance, Tragedy · 145 words

First lines

You and you only! -- By the Western gate That fronts the falling sun I shade my face And watch for you. As one who's lost the race Tries to demand no further gift from Fate Lest he be hurled more low, so I, who wait And want you, ask no pity of your grace On my defeat, I only long to trace My lost heart; come to me, my need is great.

I see the young men with their crystal eyes, They stand about my door, their hearts, I know Are breaking in the poppies that they bring. I cannot love them for I am not wise; Ah, come, or else forever let me go, I grow so tired with waiting in the Spring.

What this Textopian page supports

By the Western Gate is listed on Textopian as a poem by Helen Hay Whitney, dated 1907 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: 1907 CE
Language: English
Genres: Poetry, Romance, Tragedy, Symbolism
Length: 145 words
Structure: 1 section, 2 paragraphs
Reading fit: Easy (6th Grade)

Good citation fit

Work identity for By the Western Gate by Helen Hay Whitney
Canonical title URL and first readable passage URL
Genre and topic classification from the Textopian catalog
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Discussion starters

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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 meter, rhyme, and imagery.
Romance — The central theme revolves around longing and unrequited love, focusing on emotional and romantic desire.
Tragedy — The tone and content reflect themes of loss, defeat, and emotional suffering, characteristic of tragic elements.
Symbolism — The use of symbolic imagery, such as the 'Western gate' and 'poppies,' conveys deeper meanings and emotions.