The Hand of Time by Oliver Herford
The narrative unfolds in a dreamlike state, where a woman is depicted under a pale lamplight, reminiscent of fairy-tale beauty. As the observer gazes upon her, a menacing figure emerges, surrounded by ghostly apparitions. This figure symbolizes the relentless passage of time, represented by a dark hand that moves without mercy. The observer reflects on the futility of trying to resist or reclaim lost time, echoing sentiments from a famous poem about the inevitability of fate. As the woman awakens, she realizes the time and expresses distress over missing her train, highlighting the urgency and consequences of time slipping away. The work explores themes of time's relentless nature, the fleeting moments of life, and the tension between dreams and reality. The imagery evokes a sense of melancholy and urgency, emphasizing the importance of seizing the moment before it is lost. The interplay between beauty, time, and the human experience creates a poignant reflection on life's transience.
By Oliver Herford · First published 1910 · Genre: Poetry, Fantasy, Romance · 190 words
First lines
She dreams beneath lamplight pale, Like Beauty in the fairy-tale Of Messrs. Grimm.
And as I gaze, behold, a Thing, A shape, a face white, menacing, Hangs o'er her 'mid a ghostly ring Of figures dim.
Now o'er the figures dark I see A hand which moves relentlessly, Remorseless, black.
The hand of Time -- and through me flit The Solemn words by Omar writ, "Not all your piety nor wit Can lure it back."
What this Textopian page supports
The Hand of Time is listed on Textopian as a short story by Oliver Herford, dated 1910 CE.
This source record anchors work identity, reading entry points, and catalog context for checking claims about the work.
- Work type: Short story
- Author: Oliver Herford
- Date: 1910 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Poetry, Fantasy, Romance, Philosophical, Gothic
- Length: 190 words
- Structure: 1 section, 6 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Easy (6th Grade)
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Genres
- Poetry — The work is written in verse, employing rhyme and meter, characteristic of poetry.
- Fantasy — The imagery and themes evoke a fairy-tale quality, suggesting elements of fantasy.
- Romance — The poem explores themes of longing and missed opportunities, common in romantic literature.
- Philosophical — The reference to the 'Hand of Time' and the inevitability of time reflects philosophical themes.
Tags
Time Travel · Fantasy · Adventure · Mystery · Science Fiction · Philosophy · Realism · Symbolism · Psychological Insight · Social Commentary · Historical Context · Cultural Significance