
The Form of the Sword
This work explores the concept of a sword that can only be wielded by someone who has never seen it before. The story delves into the idea of a perfect, unattainable object that exists solely in the realm of imagination. It examines the relationship between perception and reality, highlighting how our understanding of an object is shaped by our experiences and expectations.
By Jorge Luis Borges · First published 1954 · Genre: Short Story, Psychological Fiction, Historical Fiction · 2,062 words
First lines
To E. H. M.
What this Textopian page supports
The Form of the Sword is listed on Textopian as a short story by Jorge Luis Borges, dated 1954 CE.
This source record anchors work identity, reading entry points, and catalog context for checking claims about the work.
- Work type: Short story
- Author: Jorge Luis Borges
- Date: 1954 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Short Story, Psychological Fiction, Historical Fiction, Mystery, Philosophical Fiction
- Length: 2,062 words
- Structure: 1 section, 23 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Easy (6th Grade)
Good citation fit
- Work identity for The Form of the Sword by Jorge Luis Borges
- 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 The Form of the Sword?
- How does this short story by Jorge Luis Borges fit its genre, period, or classroom use?
- Where does Short Story first become important in the reading?
Similar titles
Genres
- Short Story — The work is a concise narrative focusing on a single event and character, typical of short stories.
- Psychological Fiction — Explores the inner conflict and moral dilemmas of the protagonist, focusing on themes of betrayal and guilt.
- Historical Fiction — Set against the backdrop of a historical civil war, incorporating real historical elements and settings.
- Mystery — The narrative involves uncovering the truth behind the protagonist's scar and his past actions.
Tags
Philosophical Fiction · Metaphysical Themes · Existentialism · Mystery · Paradox · Time Travel · Alternate Realities · Fictional Universes · Speculative Fiction · Literary Experimentation · Short Story Collection · Fantasy Elements
More by Jorge Luis Borges