The Ghost of a Chance
The narrative revolves around two men, one of whom, Sinclair, is haunted by the memory of a woman he believes to be his destined love. The story unfolds in a luxurious room where Sinclair and his friend engage in a candid conversation about love, missed opportunities, and the nature of relationships. Sinclair reveals his long-standing obsession with a woman he encountered in a dream, who he believes is waiting for him somewhere in the world. He describes a profound experience where he felt a deep connection with her, only to awaken without knowing her identity. The friend, who has recently reconciled with his own love interest, Mildred, challenges Sinclair's understanding of love, suggesting that he has never truly experienced it. Sinclair reflects on his past, recounting a pivotal moment when he chose to pursue a romantic interest over attending to his ailing sister, which ultimately led to regret when he learned of her death. This decision haunts him, as he believes it cost him the chance to find his true love. As the story progresses, Sinclair visits his sister's home in Yorkshire, where he meets a mysterious woman during a storm. This woman, who shares a connection to his past, captivates him, and he feels an immediate bond. However, after a brief encounter, she leaves without revealing her name, and Sinclair is left in despair, believing he has lost her forever. The narrative explores themes of fate, the consequences of choices, and the elusive nature of love. Sinclair's fixation on the idea of a perfect match contrasts with the more pragmatic views of his friend and Mildred, who suggest that love is often found through duty and genuine connection rather than idealized dreams. The story concludes with a poignant reflection on the nature of chance and the paths not taken, leaving Sinclair to grapple with the reality of his lost opportunity.
By Mary Cholmondeley · First published 1921 · Genre: Literary Fiction, Romance, Psychological Fiction · 7,628 words
First lines
"Yes, but the years run circling fleeter, Ever they pass me -- I watch, I wait -- Ever I dream, and awake to meet her; She cometh never, or comes too late. " _Sir Alfred Lyall._
"The thing I don't understand about you," I said, "is why you have never married. Your love affairs seem to consist in ruining other people's. I was on the verge of getting married myself years ago when you lounged in and spoilt my chance. But when you had done for me you did not come forward yourself, you backed out. I believe, if the truth were known, you have backed out over and over again."
What this Textopian page supports
The Ghost of a Chance is listed on Textopian as a novel by Mary Cholmondeley, dated 1921 CE.
This source record anchors work identity, reading entry points, and catalog context for checking claims about the work.
- Work type: Novel
- Author: Mary Cholmondeley
- Date: 1921 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Literary Fiction, Romance, Psychological Fiction, Drama, Philosophical Fiction
- Length: 7,628 words
- Structure: 1 section, 136 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Easy (6th Grade)
Good citation fit
- Work identity for The Ghost of a Chance by Mary Cholmondeley
- 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 The Ghost of a Chance?
- How does this novel by Mary Cholmondeley fit its genre, period, or classroom use?
- Where does Literary Fiction first become important in the reading?
Similar titles
- Nona Vincent by Henry James
- An Imaginative Woman by Thomas Hardy
- Anne Severn And The Fieldings by May Sinclair
- Mrs Medwin by Henry James
- Mr Waddington Of Wyck by May Sinclair
- A Devotee by Mary Cholmondeley
Genres
- Literary Fiction — The book explores complex themes of love, regret, and existential longing, characteristic of literary fiction.
- Romance — The central plot revolves around romantic relationships and the pursuit of love.
- Psychological Fiction — The characters' internal struggles and emotional states are deeply examined, reflecting psychological themes.
- Drama — The narrative contains dramatic elements, focusing on personal conflicts and emotional revelations.
Tags
Psychological Fiction · Realism · Social Commentary · Victorian Era · English Literature · Novel of Manners · Family Dynamics · Marriage · Class Conflict · Morality · Ethics · Societal Expectations