On a Hermit whom I Knew
The poem describes an old hermit who lives a simple life in the woods. He has no possessions and survives on berries and roots. The speaker reflects on their past acquaintance with the hermit, noting his isolation and contentment. The poem explores themes of solitude, simplicity, and the human desire for connection.
By Hilaire Belloc · First published 1908 · Genre: Travel Literature, Philosophical Fiction, Adventure · 2,932 words
First lines
In a valley of the Apennines, a little before it was day, I went down by the side of a torrent wondering where I should find repose; for it was now some hours since I had given up all hope of discovering a place for proper human rest and for the passing of the night, but at least I hoped to light upon a dry bed of sand under some overhanging rock, or possibly of pine needles beneath closely woven trees, where one might get sleep until the rising of the sun.
What this Textopian page supports
On a Hermit whom I Knew is listed on Textopian as a short story by Hilaire Belloc, dated 1908 CE.
This source record anchors work identity, reading entry points, and catalog context for checking claims about the work.
- Work type: Short story
- Author: Hilaire Belloc
- Date: 1908 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Travel Literature, Philosophical Fiction, Adventure, Pastoral, Literary Fiction
- Length: 2,932 words
- Structure: 1 section, 31 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Fairly Easy (7th Grade)
Good citation fit
- Work identity for On a Hermit whom I Knew by Hilaire Belloc
- 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 On a Hermit whom I Knew?
- How does this short story by Hilaire Belloc fit its genre, period, or classroom use?
- Where does Travel Literature first become important in the reading?
Similar titles
- The Only Permanent Shore by Henry David Thoreau
- The Vireo by Henry David Thoreau
- River Song by Henry David Thoreau
- If I Knew What Poets Know by James Whitcomb Riley
- The Amateur Emigrant by Robert Louis Stevenson
- The Cruise Of The Snark by Jack London
Genres
- Travel Literature — The narrative involves a journey through the Apennines, focusing on the traveler's experiences and encounters.
- Philosophical Fiction — The story explores themes of solitude, contemplation, and the meaning of life through the hermit's reflections.
- Adventure — The protagonist embarks on a journey with elements of exploration and discovery.
- Pastoral — The setting in the natural landscape of the Apennines and the hermit's simple life evoke pastoral themes.
Tags
Biography · Autobiographical · Memoir · Hermitage · Solitude · Friendship · Philosophy · Spirituality · Meditation · Nature · Poetry · Literary Nonfiction