The Feud by Madison Cawein (1900)

Name: The Feud
Author: Madison Cawein

The narrative unfolds in a rural, mountainous setting, rich with natural imagery and a sense of foreboding. The landscape is described in vivid detail, highlighting the tranquility of nature juxtaposed with the tension of human conflict. The scene introduces two characters: a gaunt, sly man with a rifle and a young, blonde-bearded horseman. The man, embodying a sense of desperation and stealth, observes the surroundings while drinking from a flask, suggesting a troubled past or current state. His demeanor hints at a predatory instinct, as he watches an eagle, symbolizing freedom and power, contrasting with his own constrained existence. The horseman, characterized by his silence and grimness, becomes a focal point as he takes aim in the thicket. The act of shooting disrupts the serene atmosphere, introducing violence into the idyllic setting. The echoes of the gunshot reverberate through the hills, amplifying the tension and foreshadowing the consequences of this act. As the narrative progresses, the aftermath of the shot reveals a deeper conflict, likely rooted in a longstanding feud. The riderless horse galloping away signifies chaos and loss, hinting at the tragic outcomes of the characters' actions. The interplay between nature and human strife serves as a backdrop for exploring themes of vengeance, survival, and the cyclical nature of violence. The work delves into the psychological landscape of its characters, illustrating how their environment shapes their actions and motivations. The tension builds as the reader anticipates the unfolding drama, rooted in the characters' histories and the inevitable clash that arises from their choices. The imagery of the natural world contrasts sharply with the darkness of human conflict, creating a poignant exploration of the consequences of a feud that transcends mere personal grievances, reflecting broader themes of humanity's struggle against itself.

By Madison Cawein · First published 1900 · Genre: Poetry, Nature Writing, Drama · 467 words

First lines

Rocks, trees and rocks; and down a mossy stone The murmuring ooze and trickle of a stream Through bushes, where the mountain spring lies lone, -- A gleaming cairngorm where the shadows dream, -- And one wild road winds like a saffron seam.

Here sang the thrush, whose pure, mellifluous note Dropped golden sweetness on the fragrant June; Here cat -- and blue-bird and wood-sparrow wrote Their presence on the silence with a tune; And here the fox drank 'neath the mountain moon.

What this Textopian page supports

The Feud is listed on Textopian as a short story by Madison Cawein, dated 1900 CE.

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

Work type: Short story
Author: Madison Cawein
Date: 1900 CE
Language: English
Genres: Poetry, Nature Writing, Drama, Western, Literary Fiction
Length: 467 words
Structure: 1 section, 7 paragraphs
Reading fit: Fairly Easy (7th Grade)

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Discussion starters

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How does this short story by Madison Cawein fit its genre, period, or classroom use?
Where does Poetry first become important in the reading?

Similar titles

Genres

Poetry — The work is written in verse, employing rhythmic and lyrical language typical of poetry.
Nature Writing — The vivid descriptions of the natural landscape and wildlife indicate a strong focus on nature.
Drama — The presence of conflict and tension, particularly with the introduction of characters and a violent act, suggests dramatic elements.
Western — The setting and themes of rivalry and gunplay align with characteristics of the Western genre.