A Military Appointment by Thomas Hardy
The narrative unfolds around two women, Nan and Nell, who discuss a soldier who has promised to meet one of them. The dialogue reveals their anticipation and emotional investment in the soldier's return. Nan expresses her eagerness to welcome her lover, while Nell hints at a growing affection for him as well. The tension arises from the soldier's absence and the uncertainty surrounding his commitment. As the story progresses, the soldier's character is explored through the women's perspectives. His military life and the impact of war on personal relationships become central themes. The women’s contrasting feelings—hope and jealousy—highlight the complexities of love in the context of duty and separation. The soldier eventually arrives, and the dynamics shift. His presence brings both joy and tension, as the women navigate their feelings for him. The narrative delves into the emotional turmoil caused by unfulfilled promises and the realities of military life, emphasizing the fragility of relationships under such circumstances. The climax centers on the soldier's choices and the implications of his military obligations. The women confront their feelings, leading to a poignant resolution that reflects on love, loyalty, and the sacrifices made in the name of duty. The story concludes with a sense of ambiguity, leaving the characters—and the reader—pondering the true cost of love in a world shaped by conflict.
By Thomas Hardy · First published 1913 · Genre: Poetry, Romance, Military Fiction · 232 words
First lines
(SCHERZANDO)
"SO back you have come from the town, Nan, dear! / And have you seen him there, or near- / That soldier of mine- / Who long since promised to meet me here?"
"-O yes, Nell: from the town I come, / And have seen your lover on sick-leave home- / That soldier of yours- / Who swore to meet you, or Strike-him-dumb;
"But has kept himself of late away; / Yet,-in short, he's coming, I heard him say- / That lover of yours- / To this very spot on this very day."
What this Textopian page supports
A Military Appointment is listed on Textopian as a poem by Thomas Hardy, dated 1913 CE.
This source record anchors work identity, reading entry points, and catalog context for checking claims about the work.
- Work type: Poem
- Author: Thomas Hardy
- Date: 1913 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Poetry, Romance, Military Fiction, Drama, Victorian Literature
- Length: 232 words
- Structure: 1 section, 6 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Easy (6th Grade)
Good citation fit
- Work identity for A Military Appointment by Thomas Hardy
- Canonical title URL and first readable passage URL
- Genre and topic classification from the Textopian catalog
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Genres
- Poetry — The work is written in verse, employing rhyme and meter typical of poetry.
- Romance — The central theme revolves around love and the anticipation of a romantic meeting.
- Military Fiction — The narrative involves a soldier and references military life, highlighting themes related to war and duty.
- Drama — The dialogue-driven format and emotional tension suggest dramatic elements.
Tags
military · appointment · war · duty · service · conflict · leadership · sacrifice · camaraderie · strategy · loyalty · honor