Archimedes' Point
The novel revolves around the life of a young man who becomes infatuated with an older woman and her daughter. The story explores themes of love, desire, and the complexities of human relationships. Through a non-linear narrative structure, the novel delves into the inner workings of its characters' minds, revealing their thoughts, emotions, and motivations.
By Hjalmar Soderberg · First published 1922 · Genre: Literary Fiction, Coming-of-Age, Philosophical Fiction · 1,062 words
First lines
I once knew a little street arab.
He was the same age as I and lived in the same square. But he was superior to me in everything, not only in experience and courage but also in accomplishments; for with the aid of a piece of red chalk or charcoal he could fill the walls of the street with words and symbols whose meaning I did not understand. When I was going out and was alone and unprotected, I used first to stick my nose out of the gate and glance down the street to assure myself that the little rowdy was not in the neighborhood. For he was stronger than I and could never endure with equanimity the appearance of my clothes, which were cleaner and in better condition than his.
What this Textopian page supports
Archimedes' Point is listed on Textopian as a short story by Hjalmar Soderberg, dated 1922 CE.
This source record anchors work identity, reading entry points, and catalog context for checking claims about the work.
- Work type: Short story
- Author: Hjalmar Soderberg
- Date: 1922 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Literary Fiction, Coming-of-Age, Philosophical Fiction, Social Commentary, Short Story
- Length: 1,062 words
- Structure: 1 section, 15 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Easy (6th Grade)
Good citation fit
- Work identity for Archimedes' Point by Hjalmar Soderberg
- Canonical title URL and first readable passage URL
- Genre and topic classification from the Textopian catalog
- Readability and classroom-planning context
- Passage-specific claims should cite the exact /read/ URL for the relevant chapter or paragraph
Discussion starters
- What should a reader notice first when entering Archimedes' Point?
- How does this short story by Hjalmar Soderberg fit its genre, period, or classroom use?
- Where does Literary Fiction first become important in the reading?
Similar titles
- The Abstracted Man by Hilaire Belloc
- Utopia Of A Tired Man by Jorge Luis Borges
- Steppenwolf by Hermann Hesse
- The Search by Fyodor Sologub
- The Man Who Lost His Name by Hjalmar Hjorth Boysen
- The Present Time by James Mcintyre
Genres
- Literary Fiction — The narrative explores complex themes of childhood, social class, and the nature of understanding, characteristic of literary fiction.
- Coming-of-Age — The protagonist's experiences and reflections on childhood and growth align with coming-of-age themes.
- Philosophical Fiction — The story delves into philosophical questions about knowledge and understanding, particularly through the protagonist's reflections.
- Social Commentary — The text critiques social hierarchies and childhood innocence, providing insight into societal structures.
Tags
Philosophical Fiction · Existentialism · Absurdism · Psychological Insight · Stream-of-Consciousness · Inner Monologue · Mental Health · Identity Crisis · Self-Discovery · Nihilism · Meaninglessness · Existential Angst