On the Strength of a Likeness
The narrative follows a young man, Hannasyde, who is haunted by an unrequited love for Alice Chisane. Four years after their relationship ended, he encounters a woman, Mrs. Landys-Haggert, who bears an uncanny resemblance to Alice. This resemblance reignites his feelings, leading him to pursue her companionship in Simla, where social events abound. Hannasyde's infatuation with Mrs. Haggert is driven by her likeness to Alice, rather than genuine affection for her as an individual. He becomes increasingly absorbed in the illusion of rekindling his past love through her, ignoring her distinct personality and experiences. Mrs. Haggert, aware of his fixation, confronts him about his lack of genuine interest in her, which leads to a moment of clarity for Hannasyde. As the season in Simla concludes, Hannasyde returns to his work, but he remains preoccupied with thoughts of Mrs. Haggert and the ghost of Alice. His feelings become more complicated when he realizes that Mrs. Haggert is not only similar to Alice but also more captivating in her own right. Their interactions deepen during her stay in Lucknow, where Hannasyde grapples with his emotions and the reality of their situations, both being married to others. The story culminates at the railway station as Mrs. Haggert departs. Their farewell is charged with unspoken emotions, and Hannasyde's desperate wish to never see her again reveals the complexity of his feelings. The narrative explores themes of memory, longing, and the nature of love, ultimately highlighting the distinction between idealized affection and genuine connection.
By Rudyard Kipling · First published 1925 · Genre: Literary Fiction, Romance, Psychological Fiction · 2,761 words
First lines
If your mirror be broken, look into still water; but have a care that you do not fall in. Hindu Proverb.
Next to a requited attachment, one of the most convenient things that a young man can carry about with him at the beginning of his career, is an unrequited attachment. It makes him feel important and business-like, and blase, and cynical; and whenever he has a touch of liver, or suffers from want of exercise, he can mourn over his lost love, and be very happy in a tender, twilight fashion.
What this Textopian page supports
On the Strength of a Likeness is listed on Textopian as a short story by Rudyard Kipling, dated 1925 CE.
This source record anchors work identity, reading entry points, and catalog context for checking claims about the work.
- Work type: Short story
- Author: Rudyard Kipling
- Date: 1925 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Literary Fiction, Romance, Psychological Fiction, Drama, Short Story
- Length: 2,761 words
- Structure: 1 section, 21 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Standard (8th-9th Grade)
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- Work identity for On the Strength of a Likeness by Rudyard Kipling
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Discussion starters
- What should a reader notice first when entering On the Strength of a Likeness?
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Similar titles
- The Hill Of Illusion by Rudyard Kipling
- Family Portraits by Stanley J. Weyman
- Little Selves by Mary Lerner
- The Clearest Voice by Margaret Sherwood
- End Of Another Home Holiday by D. H. Lawrence
- The Figure In The Mirage by Robert Hichens
Genres
- Literary Fiction — The narrative explores complex emotional themes, character development, and introspection, characteristic of literary fiction.
- Romance — The plot centers around unrequited love and romantic longing, which are central themes in romance literature.
- Psychological Fiction — The story delves into the psychological aspects of love, obsession, and self-deception, highlighting the protagonist's internal struggles.
- Drama — The emotional conflicts and interpersonal dynamics create a dramatic tension throughout the narrative.
Tags
identity · resemblance · family · heritage · memory · self-discovery · relationships · cultural background · narrative · psychology · human experience · perception