La Tristesse by Marjorie Pickthall

Name: La Tristesse
Author: Marjorie Pickthall

The narrative follows a young boy named Hypolite, who, recovering from measles, is sent to a village to regain his strength. There, he is cared for by Madame Dulac, who nurtures him and helps him reconnect with his French heritage. Hypolite quickly forms bonds with the villagers, particularly with a girl named Félice and a man named Maxime, who owns a black dog named La Tristesse. Hypolite is drawn to La Tristesse, despite the villagers' superstitions about the dog being a harbinger of misfortune. The boy's innocent curiosity leads him to Maxime, who explains that he named the dog Sorrow due to her appearance and the stigma surrounding her. Maxime and Hypolite share a mutual appreciation for beauty and art, contrasting with the villagers' fear and prejudice. As rumors of misfortune linked to La Tristesse circulate, tensions rise in the village. The villagers demand that Maxime get rid of the dog, leading to a confrontation where Maxime refuses to abandon his loyal companion. In a moment of unexpected bravery, Félice steps forward, declaring her willingness to leave with Maxime if he must go. This declaration transforms the situation, as the crowd is taken aback by her boldness and the depth of their connection. Ultimately, Maxime, Félice, and La Tristesse leave the village together, hand in hand, disappearing into the sunset. The story concludes with Hypolite mourning the loss of this beautiful moment, reflecting on the themes of love, loyalty, and the societal fear of the unknown. The narrative encapsulates the innocence of childhood, the power of connection, and the tragic beauty of love intertwined with sorrow.

By Marjorie Pickthall · First published 1923 · Genre: Literary Fiction, Coming-of-Age, Magical Realism · 3,955 words

First lines

This is not really the story of a child, though it began when Hypolite caught the measles at dancing-class. And when he was getting better, his uncle, who kept a business-like eye upon his health and his manners, sent him to Madame Dulac at Saint Jacques de Kilkenny, to grow strong in the air of the hills.

What this Textopian page supports

La Tristesse is listed on Textopian as a short story by Marjorie Pickthall, dated 1923 CE.

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

Work type: Short story
Author: Marjorie Pickthall
Date: 1923 CE
Language: English
Genres: Literary Fiction, Coming-of-Age, Magical Realism, Drama, Romance
Length: 3,955 words
Structure: 1 section, 55 paragraphs
Reading fit: Easy (6th Grade)

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Work identity for La Tristesse by Marjorie Pickthall
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Discussion starters

What should a reader notice first when entering La Tristesse?
How does this short story by Marjorie Pickthall fit its genre, period, or classroom use?
Where does Literary Fiction first become important in the reading?

Similar titles

Genres

Literary Fiction — The narrative focuses on character development, emotional depth, and thematic exploration of loneliness and companionship.
Coming-of-Age — The story follows Hypolite's growth and understanding of relationships and emotions as he navigates childhood experiences.
Magical Realism — Elements of superstition and the mystical connection between characters and the dog La Tristesse suggest a blend of reality and magical elements.
Drama — The plot centers around interpersonal conflicts and emotional struggles, particularly regarding societal perceptions and personal relationships.