Ghosts by Helen Hay Whitney (1929)

Name: Ghosts
Author: Helen Hay Whitney

The novel revolves around a young woman who returns to her hometown after being away for several years. She becomes involved with a local man and his family, but their social differences create tension in the relationship. The story explores themes of class, identity, and the constraints placed on women during this time period.

By Helen Hay Whitney · First published 1929 · Genre: Poetry, Romantic, Supernatural · 98 words

First lines

The long lost lights of love I know, They thrill from ultimate space, they blow Like small bewildered stars, tossed high On some unknown and passionate sky.

I know them for the loved lost lights That made the glamour of my nights Long, long ago, and now I fear Their coming, and the garb they wear.

For they are very white and cold, They are not coloured as of old, In trailing radiance, rose and red, For these are ghosts, and they are dead.

What this Textopian page supports

Ghosts is listed on Textopian as a poem by Helen Hay Whitney, dated 1929 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: 1929 CE
Language: English
Genres: Poetry, Romantic, Supernatural, Melancholic
Length: 98 words
Structure: 1 section, 3 paragraphs
Reading fit: Easy (6th Grade)

Good citation fit

Work identity for Ghosts by Helen Hay Whitney
Canonical title URL and first readable passage URL
Genre and topic classification from the Textopian catalog
Readability and classroom-planning context
Passage-specific claims should cite the exact /read/ URL for the relevant chapter or paragraph

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, utilizing rhyme and meter, characteristic of poetic form.
Romantic — Themes of love and longing are central, reflecting romantic ideals and emotions.
Supernatural — The presence of 'ghosts' and 'lost lights' suggests elements of the supernatural.
Melancholic — The tone is somber and reflective, focusing on loss and the passage of time.