A Reading by John Gould Fletcher
The poem explores the theme of disillusionment and spiritual decay in a post-World War I society. It describes a world where traditional values have been eroded and people are left feeling empty and disconnected from their surroundings. The speaker reflects on the loss of innocence and the fragmentation of society, highlighting the tension between individualism and conformity.
By John Gould Fletcher · First published 1936 · Genre: Lyric Poetry, Imagism, Romanticism · 49 words
First lines
"And the prince came to the craggy rock But saw only hissing waves So he rested all day amid them."
He listens idly, He is content with her voice.
He dreams it is the murmur Of distant wave-caps breaking Upon the painted screen.
What this Textopian page supports
A Reading is listed on Textopian as an essay by John Gould Fletcher, dated 1936 CE.
This source record anchors work identity, reading entry points, and catalog context for checking claims about the work.
- Work type: Essay
- Author: John Gould Fletcher
- Date: 1936 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Lyric Poetry, Imagism, Romanticism, Symbolism, Modernism
- Length: 49 words
- Structure: 1 section, 3 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Very Easy (5th Grade or below)
Good citation fit
- Work identity for A Reading by John Gould Fletcher
- 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 A Reading?
- How does this essay by John Gould Fletcher 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 features expressive language and emotional depth, characteristic of lyric poetry.
- Imagism — The vivid imagery and focus on precise language align with the principles of Imagism.
- Romanticism — Themes of nature and introspection reflect Romantic ideals.
- Symbolism — The use of symbols to convey deeper meanings is evident throughout the text.
Tags
Poetry Collection · American Literature · Modernism · Symbolism · Imagery · Nature Writing · Regionalism · Southern Gothic · Autobiographical Elements · Coming of Age · Self-Discovery · Existential Themes