On the Sources of Rivers
The book explores the geological and geographical origins of rivers, discussing how they form and evolve over time through erosion and sedimentation. It examines the role of tectonic activity, weathering, and water flow in shaping river systems. The text also touches on the relationship between rivers and their surrounding landscapes, including the impact of human activities on river ecosystems.
By Hilaire Belloc · First published 1904 · Genre: Travel, Nature Writing, Philosophical · 1,706 words
First lines
There are certain customs in man the permanence of which gives infinite pleasure. When the mood of the schools is against them these customs lie in wait beneath the floors of society, but they never die, and when a decay in pedantry or in despotism or in any other evil and inhuman influence permits them to reappear they reappear.
What this Textopian page supports
On the Sources of Rivers is listed on Textopian as a short story by Hilaire Belloc, dated 1904 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: 1904 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Travel, Nature Writing, Philosophical, Cultural Commentary, Historical
- Length: 1,706 words
- Structure: 1 section, 14 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Fairly Easy (7th Grade)
Good citation fit
- Work identity for On the Sources of Rivers 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 the Sources of Rivers?
- How does this short story by Hilaire Belloc fit its genre, period, or classroom use?
- Where does Travel first become important in the reading?
Similar titles
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- Travels With A Donkey In The Cevennes by Robert Louis Stevenson
- Mornings In Florence by John Ruskin
- Lectures On Landscape by John Ruskin
- On Old Towns by Hilaire Belloc
- On Two Towns by Hilaire Belloc
Genres
- Travel — The text explores various river sources and their geographical and cultural significance.
- Nature Writing — The work reflects on natural landscapes and the mystical qualities of river sources.
- Philosophical — The narrative delves into philosophical musings on human customs and the sanctity of nature.
- Cultural Commentary — The text comments on human traditions and their persistence despite modernity.
Tags
Geography · Science · Non-fiction · Essay · Philosophy · Nature · Environment · Hydrology · Water · Rivers · Landscape · Travel