Prelude by Henry Van Dyke (1907)
The story revolves around a young man who returns to his hometown after years abroad and becomes disillusioned with the superficiality of small-town life. He reflects on the changing values and morals of society, particularly in relation to marriage and relationships. The narrative explores themes of love, morality, and social commentary through the protagonist's introspection and interactions with those around him.
By Henry Van Dyke · First published 1907 · Genre: Poetry, Pastoral, Nature · 473 words
First lines
AN ANGLER'S WISH IN TOWN
When tulips bloom in Union Square, / And timid breaths of vernal air / Are wandering down the dusty town, / Like children lost in Vanity Fair;
What this Textopian page supports
Prelude is listed on Textopian as a poem by Henry Van Dyke, 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: Henry Van Dyke
- Date: 1907 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Poetry, Pastoral, Nature, Romantic, Reflective
- Length: 473 words
- Structure: 1 section, 14 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Difficult (College Level)
Good citation fit
- Work identity for Prelude by Henry Van Dyke
- 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
Similar titles
- Longing by Johann Wolfgang Von Goethe
- Only This by Helen Hay Whitney
- Main Street by Joyce Kilmer
- Lost Dreams by Helen Hay Whitney
- The Price by Helen Hay Whitney
- The Seed Of Mccoy by Jack London
Genres
- Poetry — The work is structured in verse form, utilizing rhyme and meter to convey its themes.
- Pastoral — The poem idealizes rural life and nature, contrasting it with urban settings.
- Nature — The text focuses on natural elements, such as flora and fauna, and the desire to connect with nature.
- Romantic — The work emphasizes emotion, individualism, and a deep appreciation for the beauty of nature.
Tags
Fiction · Novel · American Literature · 19th Century · Philosophical · Psychological · Coming of Age · Self-Discovery · Existentialism · Moral Dilemma · Social Commentary · Class Struggle