Hands Off by Hervey Allen (1941)
The novel revolves around the life of a young American who becomes embroiled in the intrigue and politics of Europe during World War I. The story follows his experiences with various characters, including aristocrats, politicians, and revolutionaries, as he navigates the complexities of war and its aftermath. The narrative explores themes of loyalty, duty, and morality, raising questions about the nature of patriotism and the consequences of one's actions in times of conflict. Through the protagonist's journey, the novel critiques the romanticized notions of heroism and the idealization of war. The author employs a nuanced and introspective tone to examine the psychological effects of war on individuals and society as a whole. The narrative is characterized by its realistic portrayal of the brutalities and disillusionments of war, offering a stark contrast to the patriotic fervor that often accompanies it. Ultimately, the novel presents a thought-provoking exploration of the human experience during times of conflict, challenging readers to consider the complexities and moral ambiguities of war.
By Hervey Allen · First published 1941 · Genre: Poetry, War Literature, Elegy · 391 words
First lines
Dedicated to Orators and Others.
I know a glade in Argonne where they lean -- Those crosses -- loosened by last winter's snows, Throwing their silent shadows on the green; There I could go this very day -- God knows!
What this Textopian page supports
Hands Off is listed on Textopian as a poem by Hervey Allen, dated 1941 CE.
This source record anchors work identity, reading entry points, and catalog context for checking claims about the work.
- Work type: Poem
- Author: Hervey Allen
- Date: 1941 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Poetry, War Literature, Elegy, Social Critique
- Length: 391 words
- Structure: 1 section, 6 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Fairly Easy (7th Grade)
Good citation fit
- Work identity for Hands Off by Hervey Allen
- 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
- What should a reader notice first when entering Hands Off?
- How does this poem by Hervey Allen fit its genre, period, or classroom use?
- Where does Poetry first become important in the reading?
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Genres
- Poetry — The work is structured in verse form, utilizing rhyme and meter, and employs poetic devices such as imagery and metaphor.
- War Literature — The themes and imagery are centered around the aftermath of war, the cost of victory, and the remembrance of fallen soldiers.
- Elegy — The text serves as a mournful reflection on the loss of life and the sacrifices made by soldiers, fitting the characteristics of an elegy.
- Social Critique — The work critiques societal behaviors, particularly the exploitation of the dead for rhetorical purposes, indicating a critical stance on social issues.
Tags
Historical Fiction · War Novel · American Literature · Novel of the American Civil War · Southern Gothic · Coming-of-Age Story · Family Saga · Social Commentary · Racial Tensions · Slavery · Reconstruction Era · Post-Civil War America