The Crystal

Name: The Crystal
Author: Josephine Daskam Bacon

The novel revolves around a young woman who inherits an antique crystal from her grandmother. The crystal has been passed down through generations of women in her family and is said to possess mystical powers. As she delves deeper into the crystal's history, she uncovers dark secrets about her family's past and begins to experience strange occurrences that challenge her perception of reality. The story explores themes of identity, family legacy, and the complexities of female relationships. Through the protagonist's journey, the novel examines the ways in which women are bound by their heritage and the expectations placed upon them. As the protagonist navigates the mysteries surrounding the crystal, she must also confront her own desires and ambitions, which are at odds with the traditional roles expected of her as a woman. The novel ultimately raises questions about the nature of power, freedom, and the choices available to women in a society governed by patriarchal norms.

By Josephine Daskam Bacon · First published 1915 · Genre: Literary Fiction, Women's Fiction, Social Commentary · 11,170 words

First lines

In reviewing the matter dispassionately, it seems difficult to find anybody (anybody, that is to say, to whom her career was or is of the slightest interest) who omits to pronounce Molly Dickett's life an egregious and shameful failure. I should be sorry for any one, for instance, who had the hardihood to address her mother on the subject, for Mrs. Dickett's power of tongue is well known in and beyond local circles; and since Eleanor married young Farwell, who stands in line for cashier of the bank forty or fifty years from now, if all goes well and a series of providential deaths occurs -- indeed, ever since Kathryn became assistant-principal at the high-school (because, as her mother points out, a mere teacher's position, even in a high-school, may not be much, but an assistant-principal may be called to consult with the trustees any day and Kathryn has twice refused a college professorship) since these family adjustments, I repeat, Mrs. Dickett's tongue has grown steadily more incisive and her attempts at scaling the fortress of Mr. Dickett's wardrobe more encouraging.

What this Textopian page supports

The Crystal is listed on Textopian as a novella by Josephine Daskam Bacon, dated 1915 CE.

This source record anchors work identity, reading entry points, and catalog context for checking claims about the work.

Work type: Novella
Author: Josephine Daskam Bacon
Date: 1915 CE
Language: English
Genres: Literary Fiction, Women's Fiction, Social Commentary, Coming-of-Age, Romance
Length: 11,170 words
Structure: 1 section, 191 paragraphs
Reading fit: Very Easy (5th Grade or below)

Good citation fit

Work identity for The Crystal by Josephine Daskam Bacon
Canonical title URL and first readable passage URL
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Discussion starters

What should a reader notice first when entering The Crystal?
How does this novella by Josephine Daskam Bacon fit its genre, period, or classroom use?
Where does Literary Fiction first become important in the reading?

Similar titles

Genres

Literary Fiction — The work explores complex themes of identity, societal expectations, and personal independence through character-driven narratives.
Women's Fiction — The protagonist's journey focuses on women's roles, independence, and societal pressures, highlighting the struggles and triumphs of female characters.
Social Commentary — The narrative critiques societal norms and expectations regarding gender roles and class, reflecting on the protagonist's experiences in a changing society.
Coming-of-Age — The protagonist's development from a young woman to an independent individual is central to the plot, showcasing her personal growth and self-discovery.