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!

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
Reading fit: Easy (6th Grade)

Good citation fit

Work identity for Taboo 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
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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 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.