Hylas by Hervey Allen (1940)
The novel revolves around the life of Hylas, a young man who becomes disillusioned with his mundane existence and sets out to find meaning and purpose in life. He embarks on a journey of self-discovery, exploring various philosophical and spiritual ideologies, including mysticism and nihilism. As he navigates through different experiences and encounters, Hylas grapples with the complexities of human nature, morality, and the search for truth. His inner turmoil and existential crises lead him to question the values and conventions of society, ultimately forcing him to re-evaluate his own identity and place in the world. Throughout the novel, themes of alienation, disillusionment, and the search for authenticity are explored, raising questions about the human condition and the nature of reality.
By Hervey Allen · First published 1940 · Genre: Poetry, Mythology, Pastoral · 1,974 words
First lines
_Theocritus, Idyll XIII._
_Where art thou, Hylas, / Of the golden locks?
What this Textopian page supports
Hylas is listed on Textopian as a poem by Hervey Allen, dated 1940 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: 1940 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Poetry, Mythology, Pastoral, Tragedy, Adventure
- Length: 1,974 words
- Structure: 1 section, 40 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Standard (8th-9th Grade)
Good citation fit
- Work identity for Hylas 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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- The Minotaur by Nathaniel Hawthorne
Genres
- Poetry — The work is structured in verse form, utilizing rhyme, meter, and vivid imagery typical of poetry.
- Mythology — The narrative draws heavily on Greek mythological figures and themes, such as Heracles and nymphs.
- Pastoral — The setting and themes focus on rural life, nature, and shepherding, characteristic of pastoral literature.
- Tragedy — The story involves the loss of Hylas, evoking themes of beauty and loss, central to tragic narratives.
Tags
Philosophical Fiction · Ancient Greek Setting · Mythological Themes · Coming of Age Story · Existential Crisis · Greek Mythology · Young Adult Protagonist · Self-Discovery · Mentorship · Wisdom Literature · Psychological Insight · Symbolism