The Old Sword on the Wall
The story revolves around a young man who returns to his rural home after years away and finds himself at odds with the local customs and traditions. He struggles to reconcile his own values with those of the community, leading to tension and conflict. The narrative explores themes of identity, belonging, and the complexities of small-town life.
By Joseph C. Lincoln · First published 1908 · Genre: Poetry, Historical, War Literature · 444 words
First lines
Where the warm spring sunlight, streaming Through the window, sets its gleaming, With a softened silver sparkle in the dim and dusky hall, With its tassel torn and tattered, And its blade, deep-bruised and battered, Like a veteran, scarred and weary, hangs the old sword on the wall.
None can tell its stirring story, None can sing its deeds of glory, None can say which cause it struck for, or from what limp hand it fell; On the battle-field they found it, Where the dead lay thick around it -- Friend and foe -- a gory tangle -- tossed and torn by shot and shell.
What this Textopian page supports
The Old Sword on the Wall is listed on Textopian as a poem by Joseph C. Lincoln, dated 1908 CE.
This source record anchors work identity, reading entry points, and catalog context for checking claims about the work.
- Work type: Poem
- Author: Joseph C. Lincoln
- Date: 1908 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Poetry, Historical, War Literature, Memorial, Romanticism
- Length: 444 words
- Structure: 1 section, 6 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Fairly Easy (7th Grade)
Good citation fit
- Work identity for The Old Sword on the Wall by Joseph C. Lincoln
- 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
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Similar titles
- The Parsons Daughter by Joseph C. Lincoln
- At Eventide by Joseph C. Lincoln
- The Postmaster by Joseph C. Lincoln
- The Old Fashioned Garden by Joseph C. Lincoln
- The Winter Nights At Home by Joseph C. Lincoln
- The Light Keeper by Joseph C. Lincoln
Genres
- Poetry — The work is written in verse, employing rhythm and imagery typical of poetry.
- Historical — The themes revolve around war, memory, and the historical context of soldiers from different sides.
- War Literature — The narrative reflects on the experiences and sacrifices of soldiers, focusing on the impact of war.
- Memorial — The poem serves as a tribute to fallen soldiers, emphasizing remembrance and honor.
Tags
Classic American Literature · Fiction · Novel · Short Story Collection · Humor · Satire · Social Commentary · Rural Setting · New England · 19th Century · Coming of Age · Self-Discovery