When the Tide Goes Out
The story revolves around a young woman who returns to her hometown after being away for several years. She reconnects with old friends and acquaintances, including a former suitor who still harbors feelings for her. As she navigates her relationships and re-establishes herself in the community, she must confront her past choices and consider her future.
By Joseph C. Lincoln · First published 1908 · Genre: Poetry, Nature Writing, Lyric · 470 words
First lines
When the tide goes out, how the foam-flakes dance Through the wiry sedge-grass near the shore; How the ripples spark in the sunbeam's glance, As they madly tumble the pebbles o'er! The barnacled rocks emerging seem, As their beards of seaweed are tossed about, Like giants who wake from a troubled dream And laugh for joy when the tide goes out.
When the tide goes out, how the shining sands, Like silver, glisten, and gleam, and glow; How the sea-gulls whirl, in their joyous bands, O'er the shoals where the breakers come and go! The coal-black driftwood, gleaming wet, Relic of by-gone vessel stout, With its clinging shells, seems a bar of jet, Studded with pearls, when the tide goes out.
What this Textopian page supports
When the Tide Goes Out is listed on Textopian as a short story 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: Short story
- Author: Joseph C. Lincoln
- Date: 1908 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Poetry, Nature Writing, Lyric, Romanticism, Philosophical
- Length: 470 words
- Structure: 1 section, 5 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Fairly Easy (7th Grade)
Good citation fit
- Work identity for When the Tide Goes Out 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
- 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 When the Tide Goes Out?
- How does this short story by Joseph C. Lincoln fit its genre, period, or classroom use?
- Where does Poetry first become important in the reading?
Similar titles
- At Eventide by Joseph C. Lincoln
- The Surf Along The Shore by Joseph C. Lincoln
- The Little Old House By The Shore by Joseph C. Lincoln
- The Evenin Hymn by Joseph C. Lincoln
- The Light Keeper by Joseph C. Lincoln
- The Winter Nights At Home by Joseph C. Lincoln
Genres
- Poetry — The work is structured in verse, utilizing rhythm and imagery to convey emotions and themes.
- Nature Writing — The text vividly describes natural elements and landscapes, focusing on the ocean and shore.
- Lyric — The piece expresses personal feelings and reflections, characteristic of lyrical poetry.
- Romanticism — The emphasis on nature, emotion, and individual experience aligns with Romantic themes.
Tags
Classic American Literature · Fiction · Novel · Short Story Collection · Humor · Satire · Social Commentary · Maritime Fiction · New England Setting · Small Town Life · Fishermen's Lives · Friendship