The Watchers by Joseph C. Lincoln
A young man returns to his hometown after a long absence and becomes involved with a group of people who are being watched by a mysterious figure. The story explores themes of isolation, loneliness, and the complexities of human relationships.
By Joseph C. Lincoln · First published 1908 · Genre: Poetry, Maritime Literature, Narrative Verse · 507 words
First lines
When the great, gray fog comes in, and the damp clouds cloak the shore, And the tossing waves grow dim, and the white sails flash no more, Then, over the shrouded sea, where the winding mist-wreaths creep, The deep-voiced Watchers call, the Watchers who guard the Deep.
"Hear! hear! hear! Hark to the word I bring! Toilers upon the sea, list to the Bell-buoy's ring! List, as I clash and clang! list, as I toss and toll! Under me yawns the grave, under me lies the shoal Where the whirling eddies wait to grapple the drowning crew, And the hungry quicksand hides the bones of the ship it slew. Swift on the outward tack! quick, to the seaward bear! Toilers upon the sea, here is the shoal! Beware!"
What this Textopian page supports
The Watchers 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, Maritime Literature, Narrative Verse, Symbolism, Nature Writing
- Length: 507 words
- Structure: 1 section, 5 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Very Easy (5th Grade or below)
Good citation fit
- Work identity for The Watchers by Joseph C. Lincoln
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Discussion starters
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Similar titles
- The Meadow Road by Joseph C. Lincoln
- At Eventide by Joseph C. Lincoln
- Keziah Coffin by Joseph C. Lincoln
- The Surf Along The Shore by Joseph C. Lincoln
- When The Tide Goes Out by Joseph C. Lincoln
- Kent Knowles Quahaug by Joseph C. Lincoln
Genres
- Poetry — The work is structured in verse, utilizing rhythm and imagery to convey emotions and themes.
- Maritime Literature — The themes revolve around the sea, navigation, and the dangers faced by sailors, emphasizing maritime life.
- Narrative Verse — The poem tells a story through its verses, depicting the interactions between the Watchers and the sailors.
- Symbolism — The Watchers symbolize guardianship and the perils of the sea, representing deeper meanings beyond the literal.
Tags
Classic American Literature · Fiction · Novel · Short Story Collection · Humor · Satire · Social Commentary · Small Town Life · Community Drama · Friendship · Love Interest · Coming of Age