The Source by Henry Van Dyke (1909)
This novel explores the concept of spiritual awakening and the search for meaning through a series of interconnected stories that take place in various locations around the world. The narrative centers on a young man who embarks on a journey to discover his purpose, encountering a range of characters along the way who are also seeking enlightenment. Through their experiences, the novel delves into themes such as love, loss, and redemption. As the story unfolds, it becomes clear that each character's path is intertwined with others, illustrating the interconnectedness of human experience. The novel ultimately suggests that true understanding and fulfillment can be found through embracing one's spiritual nature and cultivating a sense of compassion for oneself and others.
By Henry Van Dyke · First published 1909 · Genre: Philosophical Fiction, Allegory, Fantasy · 7,065 words
First lines
I
In the middle of the land that is called by its inhabitants Koorma, and by strangers the Land of the Half-forgotten, I was toiling all day long through heavy sand and grass as hard as wire. Suddenly, toward evening, I came upon a place where a gate opened in the wall of mountains, and the plain ran in through the gate, making a little bay of level country among the hills.
What this Textopian page supports
The Source is listed on Textopian as a novella by Henry Van Dyke, dated 1909 CE.
This source record anchors work identity, reading entry points, and catalog context for checking claims about the work.
- Work type: Novella
- Author: Henry Van Dyke
- Date: 1909 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Philosophical Fiction, Allegory, Fantasy, Literary Fiction, Adventure
- Length: 7,065 words
- Structure: 1 section, 73 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Very Easy (5th Grade or below)
Good citation fit
- Work identity for The Source 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
Discussion starters
- What should a reader notice first when entering The Source?
- How does this novella by Henry Van Dyke fit its genre, period, or classroom use?
- Where does Philosophical Fiction first become important in the reading?
Similar titles
- The Supreme Night by Rabindranath Tagore
- The Knight by Ranier Maria Rilke
- Spirits In Bondage by C. S. Lewis
- Nature And Time by Lord Dunsany
- In Thousand Forms by Johann Wolfgang Von Goethe
- The Godlike by Johann Wolfgang Von Goethe
Genres
- Philosophical Fiction — The narrative explores deep themes of existence, memory, and the search for meaning, characteristic of philosophical literature.
- Allegory — The story serves as an allegory for spiritual and personal growth, with the Source representing deeper truths and enlightenment.
- Fantasy — The setting and elements, such as the mystical city and the Blue Flower, create a fantastical atmosphere.
- Literary Fiction — The writing style is rich and descriptive, focusing on character development and thematic depth.
Tags
Philosophical · Mystical · Spiritual · Inspirational · Poetic · Symbolic · Allegorical · Fable-like · Mythological · Existential · Psychological · Self-discovery