On the Departure of a Guest
The poem describes a moment when a guest departs from the speaker's home. The speaker reflects on the departure and notes that it marks the end of an era, a time of warmth and companionship. The guest's presence has been a source of comfort and joy, but now they are gone, leaving behind only memories.
By Hilaire Belloc · First published 1909 · Genre: Allegory, Drama, Philosophical Fiction · 1,562 words
First lines
_C'est ma Jeunesse qui s'en va. Adieu! la tres gente compagne -- Oncques ne suis moins gai pour ca (C'est ma Jeunesse qui s'en va) Et lon-lon-laire, et lon-lon-là Peut-etre perd's; peut-etre gagne. C'est ma Jeunesse qui s'en va._
(From the Author's MSS. In the library of the Abbey of Theleme.)
What this Textopian page supports
On the Departure of a Guest is listed on Textopian as an essay by Hilaire Belloc, dated 1909 CE.
This source record anchors work identity, reading entry points, and catalog context for checking claims about the work.
- Work type: Essay
- Author: Hilaire Belloc
- Date: 1909 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Allegory, Drama, Philosophical Fiction, Satire, Fantasy
- Length: 1,562 words
- Structure: 1 section, 34 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Very Easy (5th Grade or below)
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- Work identity for On the Departure of a Guest by Hilaire Belloc
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Discussion starters
- What should a reader notice first when entering On the Departure of a Guest?
- How does this essay by Hilaire Belloc fit its genre, period, or classroom use?
- Where does Allegory first become important in the reading?
Similar titles
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Genres
- Allegory — The narrative uses symbolic characters and events to convey deeper meanings about life and the passage of time.
- Drama — The dialogue-driven interaction between the Host and Youth creates a dramatic tension and emotional depth.
- Philosophical Fiction — The themes explore existential questions about youth, aging, and the nature of possessions and identity.
- Satire — The work subtly critiques societal norms and human behavior through irony and wit.
Tags
Satirical · Poem · Social Commentary · Critique of Society · Wit · Humor · Irony · Sarcasm · Literary Satire · English Literature · 19th Century Literature · Victorian Era