The Brook by Helen Hay Whitney

Name: The Brook
Author: Helen Hay Whitney

The story revolves around a young woman who returns to her childhood home after being away for several years. She reflects on her past and the people she has known, particularly a man with whom she had a romantic relationship. The narrative explores themes of love, loss, and nostalgia as the protagonist grapples with her memories and the passage of time.

By Helen Hay Whitney · First published 1906 · Genre: Poetry, Lyric, Nature · 82 words

First lines

I have a little brook in the deeps of my heart. What does it matter if the day be chill or clear, Coloured like a tourmaline and winged like a dart, Voiced like a nightingale, it sings all the year.

Small bright herbs on the banks of the stream, Moon-pale primroses, and tapestries of fern, This is the reality and life is just a dream, Iridescent bubble that the moon tides turn.

What this Textopian page supports

The Brook is listed on Textopian as a poem by Helen Hay Whitney, dated 1906 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: 1906 CE
Language: English
Genres: Poetry, Lyric, Nature, Romantic
Length: 82 words
Structure: 1 section, 2 paragraphs
Reading fit: Easy (6th Grade)

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Discussion starters

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Similar titles

Genres

Poetry — The work is structured in verse, with a focus on rhythm, meter, and vivid imagery, characteristic of poetry.
Lyric — The poem expresses personal emotions and thoughts, typical of the lyric genre.
Nature — The poem features natural imagery and themes, such as brooks, herbs, and moonlight, central to nature writing.
Romantic — The emphasis on emotion, nature, and the dream-like quality aligns with Romantic literary themes.