Vale by Hervey Allen (1926)
The novel is a historical epic that spans several centuries and continents, exploring themes of love, war, and the human condition. It begins with the story of a young man from a noble family in medieval Europe who becomes embroiled in the intrigue of royal courts and the struggle for power. As the narrative unfolds, it jumps forward in time to the 18th century, where the protagonist's descendant is involved in the American Revolution. The novel then shifts again to the 19th century, where a young woman from a humble background rises to become a prominent figure in society through her intelligence and determination. Throughout the novel, the author explores themes of social class, morality, and the nature of good and evil. The narrative is characterized by its sweeping scope, complex characters, and philosophical musings on the human experience.
By Hervey Allen · First published 1926 · Genre: Poetry, Romantic, Pastoral · 168 words
First lines
I love the little vale between your breasts, But yet, farewell, for that is never still; My garden far from you will be at rest With lakes asleep beside a brooding hill And cedar swales in hollow valley lands With S-like streams between the O-shaped ponds, Where grow frail ferns with upturned Gothic hands And prayerful fronds.
In gray half-lights 'twill be a lovely thing By Gypsy paths to wander at hearts-ease Near campaniles where the bell folk sing Down terraces of rustling linden trees, And two hills like your breasts will be in death, When lamps will cast their shadows silently, Will rise still blue above the yellow corn That ripples with a sleepy mystery.
What this Textopian page supports
Vale is listed on Textopian as a novel by Hervey Allen, dated 1926 CE.
This source record anchors work identity, reading entry points, and catalog context for checking claims about the work.
- Work type: Novel
- Author: Hervey Allen
- Date: 1926 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Poetry, Romantic, Pastoral
- Length: 168 words
- Structure: 1 section, 2 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Difficult (College Level)
Good citation fit
- Work identity for Vale 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 Vale?
- How does this novel 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 vivid imagery and metaphor typical of poetry.
- Romantic — The themes of love and longing, as well as the intimate and personal tone, align with the characteristics of romantic literature.
- Pastoral — The depiction of serene natural landscapes and the idealization of rural life are elements commonly found in pastoral literature.
Tags
Historical Fiction · War Novel · American Literature · World War I · Coming-of-Age · Literary Fiction · Realism · Psychological Insight · Character Study · Social Commentary · Family Drama · Love Story