The Toiling of Felix. a Legend on a New Saying o
The narrative poem tells the story of Felix, a wealthy and influential man who seeks to buy his way into heaven by performing good deeds and making charitable donations. However, despite his efforts, he remains unsatisfied and unfulfilled. As Felix's life comes to an end, he is visited by Jesus, who reveals that true salvation cannot be bought or earned through external actions alone. Instead, it requires a deep inner transformation of the heart and spirit. The poem explores themes of wealth, power, and spirituality, raising questions about the nature of true fulfillment and the path to eternal life. Through Felix's story, the narrative offers a commentary on the dangers of materialism and the importance of living a life of genuine faith and devotion.
By Henry Van Dyke · First published 1907 · Genre: Religious, Poetry, Legend · 3,408 words
First lines
I. PRELUDE
Hear a word that Jesus spake Nineteen hundred years ago, Where the crimson lilies blow Round the blue Tiberian lake: There the bread of life He brake, Through the fields of harvest walking With His lowly comrades, talking Of the secret thoughts that feed Weary souls in time of need.
What this Textopian page supports
The Toiling of Felix. a Legend on a New Saying of Jesus (Narrative Poems) 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: Religious, Poetry, Legend, Inspirational, Historical
- Length: 3,408 words
- Structure: 1 section, 107 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Easy (6th Grade)
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Discussion starters
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Genres
- Religious — The narrative centers around spiritual themes, exploring the teachings of Jesus and the quest for divine presence.
- Poetry — The work is structured as a narrative poem, employing poetic devices and a lyrical style.
- Legend — The story is presented as a legend, with a mythical and moralistic tone.
- Inspirational — The themes of labor, faith, and divine presence aim to inspire and uplift the reader.
Tags
Christian Literature · Poetry Collection · Narrative Poetry · Religious Fiction · Folklore · Legend · Jesus Christ · Biblical Reference · Spirituality · Faith · Moral Guidance · Allegory