Taboo by Helen Hay Whitney (1903)

Name: Taboo
Author: Helen Hay Whitney

The novel explores the theme of social class and its effects on relationships through the story of a young woman who becomes involved with a man from a lower social class. The narrative delves into the complexities of their relationship, highlighting the societal pressures that threaten to tear them apart.

By Helen Hay Whitney · First published 1903 · Genre: Poetry, Romance, Philosophical · 80 words

First lines

Now am I sacred, for that holy thing, Your touch, has made me as a god; to-day I am magnificent, I am a king To whom my fellow men must cringe and pray.

Such is taboo; but when to-morrow comes I may look once upon the sun and you; Then, thro' the dawn, with wailing and sad drums I pay the utter price. -- Such is taboo!

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Genres

Poetry — The work is structured in verse and employs poetic devices such as meter and rhyme.
Romance — The themes revolve around love and the transformative power of a romantic touch.
Philosophical — The text explores existential themes and the concept of taboo, reflecting on human condition and societal norms.
Drama — The emotional intensity and dramatic expression of the speaker's transformation and subsequent fall align with dramatic literature.

What this Textopian page supports

Taboo 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, Romance, Philosophical, Drama
Length: 80 words
Structure: 1 section, 2 paragraphs

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