We by Hervey Allen (1935)
The novel is a historical epic that spans several centuries and continents, tracing the fortunes of the Byng family from their humble beginnings in England to their rise to prominence in America. It begins with the story of John Byng, an Englishman who immigrates to Pennsylvania in the early 18th century and becomes embroiled in the colonial struggle against the Native Americans. The novel follows his descendants as they navigate the complexities of American politics and society, including the Revolutionary War and the early years of the Republic. Throughout the book, themes of family loyalty, patriotism, and social class are explored, as well as the tensions between tradition and progress. The Byngs' experiences reflect the broader historical context in which they lived, from the colonial era to the Industrial Revolution. The novel is notable for its sweeping narrative scope and its detailed portrayal of American history, as well as its exploration of the human costs of war and social change.
By Hervey Allen · First published 1935 · Genre: War Poetry, Existentialism, Modernism · 370 words
First lines
We who have come back from the war, And stand upright and draw full breath, Seek boldly what life holds in store And eat its whole fruit rind and core, Before we enter through the door To keep our rendezvous with death.
We who have walked with death in France, When all the world with death was rife, Who came through all that devils' dance, When life was but a circumstance, A sniper's whim, a bullet's glance, We have a rendezvous with life!
What this Textopian page supports
We is listed on Textopian as a novel by Hervey Allen, dated 1935 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: 1935 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: War Poetry, Existentialism, Modernism, Realism, Social Criticism
- Length: 370 words
- Structure: 1 section, 8 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Easy (6th Grade)
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- Genre and topic classification from the Textopian catalog
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Discussion starters
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Genres
- War Poetry — The poem reflects on experiences and themes related to war, including the impact of battle and the confrontation with death.
- Existentialism — The work explores themes of life, death, and the search for meaning after experiencing the horrors of war.
- Modernism — The poem's style and themes align with modernist concerns, such as disillusionment and a break from traditional forms.
- Realism — The poem presents a realistic portrayal of the psychological and physical effects of war on individuals.
Tags
Historical Fiction · War Novel · American Literature · Experimental Writing · Stream-of-Consciousness · Autobiographical Elements · Coming of Age · Social Commentary · Class Struggle · Industrialization · Urbanization · Immigration