A Smile Given in Passing
The narrative unfolds in a bustling urban setting, where the protagonist experiences a moment of profound connection through a fleeting smile from a young girl. This brief encounter transforms the mundane environment of Pennyfields, illuminating it with a sense of joy and wonder. The protagonist reflects on the impermanence of life, acknowledging that while material possessions and emotions may fade, the beauty of that smile endures in his memory. As the story progresses, the protagonist contemplates the significance of small moments and their lasting impact. The smile serves as a symbol of hope and inspiration, contrasting with the inevitable passage of time and the transient nature of human experiences. The protagonist's shop, a representation of his daily life, becomes secondary to the emotional resonance of the encounter. The narrative delves into themes of memory, beauty, and the human capacity for connection, emphasizing how a simple gesture can evoke deep feelings and alter one's perception of reality. The protagonist's reflections reveal a longing for meaning in a world often overshadowed by darkness, suggesting that even brief interactions can leave a lasting imprint on the soul. Ultimately, the work captures the essence of fleeting moments that transcend the ordinary, highlighting the power of a smile to illuminate the human experience and foster a sense of belonging amidst life's uncertainties. The protagonist's journey illustrates the idea that while life is filled with ups and downs, the beauty of genuine connection remains a source of strength and solace.
By Thomas Burke · First published 1912 · Genre: Poetry, Literary Fiction, Romance · 157 words
First lines
As I walked the street in the purring evening A little maid with yellow curls Tossed me a smile; and suddenly Pennyfields Grew from darkness to light, and the light of the stars Grew pale.
I may not see her again, but I hold her smile in my heart, And she is with me in my shop and about the streets. My shop may tumble down; West India Dock may some time suffer a drought; Grief and Joy come for a day; And Hope and Fear, and Desire and Deed Arise and pass, and are no more; But the beauty born of her quickened smile Can never die.
What this Textopian page supports
A Smile Given in Passing is listed on Textopian as a poem by Thomas Burke, dated 1912 CE.
This source record anchors work identity, reading entry points, and catalog context for checking claims about the work.
- Work type: Poem
- Author: Thomas Burke
- Date: 1912 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Poetry, Literary Fiction, Romance, Philosophical, Contemporary
- Length: 157 words
- Structure: 1 section, 2 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Standard (8th-9th Grade)
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- Work identity for A Smile Given in Passing by Thomas Burke
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Discussion starters
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Genres
- Poetry — The work employs lyrical language and explores deep emotional themes, characteristic of poetry.
- Literary Fiction — The narrative focuses on character introspection and the significance of fleeting moments, typical of literary fiction.
- Romance — The central theme revolves around a brief yet impactful encounter that evokes feelings of affection and beauty.
- Philosophical — The text reflects on transient experiences and the nature of memory and existence, aligning with philosophical themes.
Tags
short stories · literary fiction · human connection · urban life · emotional depth · nostalgia · everyday moments · character-driven · British literature · social commentary · poignant · vivid imagery