Sweethearts

Name: Sweethearts
Author: Sir Arthur Conan Doyle

The narrative follows a general practitioner who finds solace in the early morning air by the sea. He encounters an elderly man who appears to be in declining health, marked by a sense of melancholy and a mysterious letter in a woman's handwriting. The doctor observes the man's physical deterioration over several days, noting the emotional weight he carries. On a subsequent morning, the elderly man arrives transformed, exuding vitality and excitement as he anticipates the return of his wife after a brief separation. He shares the depth of their long marriage, emphasizing the joy and romance that has persisted despite the years. The doctor listens, intrigued by the man's affection and the bond they share. As the wife approaches, the doctor is struck by the contrast between the man's idealized memories and the reality of her appearance. Despite her physical shortcomings, the reunion is heartfelt, revealing the enduring nature of love and companionship. The story explores themes of aging, love, and the subjective nature of beauty, ultimately celebrating the profound connection between the couple.

By Sir Arthur Conan Doyle · First published 1894 · Genre: Literary Fiction, Romance, Drama · 3,290 words

First lines

It is hard for the general practitioner who sits among his patients both morning and evening, and sees them in their homes between, to steal time for one little daily breath of cleanly air. To win it he must slip early from his bed and walk out between shuttered shops when it is chill but very clear, and all things are sharply outlined, as in a frost. It is an hour that has a charm of its own, when, but for a postman or a milkman, one has the pavement to oneself, and even the most common thing takes an ever-recurring freshness, as though causeway, and lamp, and signboard had all wakened to the new day. Then even an inland city may seem beautiful, and bear virtue in its smoke-tainted air.

What this Textopian page supports

Sweethearts is listed on Textopian as a short story by Sir Arthur Conan Doyle, dated 1894 CE.

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

Work type: Short story
Author: Sir Arthur Conan Doyle
Date: 1894 CE
Language: English
Genres: Literary Fiction, Romance, Drama, Slice of Life, Historical Fiction
Length: 3,290 words
Structure: 1 section, 37 paragraphs
Reading fit: Easy (6th Grade)

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Discussion starters

What should a reader notice first when entering Sweethearts?
How does this short story by Sir Arthur Conan Doyle 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 the exploration of human relationships, particularly love and aging.
Romance — The central theme revolves around the enduring love between the old man and his wife, highlighting romantic ideals and emotional connections.
Drama — The story presents dramatic elements through the old man's emotional turmoil and the poignant moments of reunion.
Slice of Life — The narrative captures everyday moments and the subtleties of life, focusing on the ordinary experiences of the characters.