Longing
The novel revolves around the protagonist's unrequited love for a woman who is already engaged to be married. The story explores themes of longing, love, and the human condition through the protagonist's inner monologues and interactions with those around him. The narrative delves into the complexities of the human heart, revealing the depths of emotional pain and the fragility of relationships. Through the protagonist's experiences, the novel highlights the tension between reason and passion, as well as the societal pressures that shape individual desires. Ultimately, the story concludes on a somber note, underscoring the enduring nature of longing and the elusiveness of true love.
By Johann Wolfgang Von Goethe · First published 1774 · Genre: Lyric Poetry, Romanticism, Nature Poetry · 218 words
First lines
WHAT pulls at my heart so?
What tells me to roam? What drags me and lures me
From chamber and home? How round the cliffs gather
The clouds high in air! I fain would go thither,
What this Textopian page supports
Longing is listed on Textopian as a poem by Johann Wolfgang Von Goethe, dated 1774 CE.
This source record anchors work identity, reading entry points, and catalog context for checking claims about the work.
- Work type: Poem
- Author: Johann Wolfgang Von Goethe
- Date: 1774 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Lyric Poetry, Romanticism, Nature Poetry, Symbolism, Existentialism
- Length: 218 words
- Structure: 1 section, 26 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Very Easy (5th Grade or below)
Good citation fit
- Work identity for Longing by Johann Wolfgang Von Goethe
- 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 Longing?
- How does this poem by Johann Wolfgang Von Goethe fit its genre, period, or classroom use?
- Where does Lyric Poetry first become important in the reading?
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Genres
- Lyric Poetry — The work expresses deep personal emotions and reflections, characteristic of lyric poetry.
- Romanticism — Themes of nature, longing, and individual experience align with the Romantic movement.
- Nature Poetry — The vivid imagery of nature and its connection to human emotion is central to the text.
- Symbolism — The use of symbols, such as the star and the maiden, conveys deeper meanings and emotions.
Tags
Romance · Poetry · German Literature · 18th Century · Philosophical · Psychological Insight · Inner Turmoil · Love Story · Tragic Ending · Existential Crisis · Self-Discovery · Emotional Journey