The Road by Olive Tilford Dargan
The narrative unfolds in a reflective and poetic manner, exploring themes of beauty, loss, and the human condition. The protagonist traverses a metaphorical road, Gilead, which symbolizes a journey through life, nature, and the search for meaning. The imagery evokes a deep connection to the natural world, where the protagonist finds solace and beauty amidst the shadows of existence. As the journey progresses, the protagonist grapples with the weight of memory and the passage of time. There is a sense of longing for a lost paradise, a place of innocence and peace, contrasted with the harsh realities of life. The protagonist hears the cries of others, representing collective suffering and the burden of history, as they seek guidance and understanding. The narrative shifts between moments of introspection and external observation, highlighting the tension between personal experience and the broader human struggle. The protagonist's reflections on love, loss, and the quest for freedom resonate deeply, as they confront the pain of existence and the desire for connection. Ultimately, the journey is one of awakening, as the protagonist recognizes the interconnectedness of all beings and the shared burdens of humanity. The call to action is clear: to embrace the collective struggle and seek a path toward healing and unity. The work culminates in a powerful affirmation of solidarity, urging the reader to remember the sacrifices made for freedom and to strive for a better future.
By Olive Tilford Dargan · First published 1937 · Genre: Poetry, Lyrical, Nature Writing · 1,177 words
First lines
On Gilead road the shadows creep; ('Tis noon, and I forget; ) By Gilead road the ferns are deep, And waves run emerald, wind-beset, To some unsanded shore Of doe and dove and fay; And I for love of that before, Forget the hindward way.
By Gilead road a river runs, (To what unshadowed sea? ) Bough-hidden here, -- there by the sun's Gold treachery unbared to me. O Beauty in retreat, From beckoned eyes you steal, But the pursuing heart, more fleet, Lifts your secretest veil.
What this Textopian page supports
The Road is listed on Textopian as a short story by Olive Tilford Dargan, dated 1937 CE.
This source record anchors work identity, reading entry points, and catalog context for checking claims about the work.
- Work type: Short story
- Author: Olive Tilford Dargan
- Date: 1937 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Poetry, Lyrical, Nature Writing, Philosophical, Romanticism
- Length: 1,177 words
- Structure: 1 section, 15 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Easy (6th Grade)
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Genres
- Poetry — The work is written in verse, employing poetic devices such as imagery, metaphor, and rhythm.
- Lyrical — The text expresses personal emotions and reflections, characteristic of lyrical poetry.
- Nature Writing — The poem vividly describes natural landscapes and the beauty of the environment.
- Philosophical — The themes explore existential questions and the search for meaning in life.
Tags
American Literature · Novel · Fiction · Drama · Tragedy · Family · Relationships · Survival · Hope · Resilience · Human Condition · Social Commentary