Great Things by Thomas Hardy (1928)
The work explores the themes of simple pleasures and the transient nature of joy through a series of reflections on various experiences. The narrator expresses a deep appreciation for the joys of life, such as the enjoyment of sweet cider, the exhilaration of dancing, and the profound feelings associated with love. Each stanza emphasizes the significance of these experiences, portraying them as essential components of a fulfilling life. The narrator revels in the sensory delights of cider, associating it with social gatherings and the warmth of companionship. Dancing is depicted as a communal celebration, highlighting the joy of connection and the thrill of shared moments. Love is presented as a transformative force, evoking a sense of wonder and enchantment. As the work progresses, the narrator contemplates the permanence of these joys, questioning whether they will endure in the face of life's inevitable changes. The final lines suggest a recognition of mortality and the possibility of a higher calling, hinting at a deeper existential inquiry. Despite this uncertainty, the narrator affirms the value of these experiences, suggesting that they will always hold significance, even if their forms change. Overall, the work captures the essence of human experience, celebrating the beauty of fleeting moments while acknowledging the complexities of existence. It invites readers to reflect on their own lives and the "great things" that bring them joy.
By Thomas Hardy · First published 1928 · Genre: Poetry, Romanticism, Lyric · 288 words
First lines
SWEET cyder is a great thing, / A great thing to me, / Spinning down to Weymouth town / By Ridgway thirstily, / And maid and mistress summoning / Who tend the hostelry: / O cyder is a great thing, / A great thing to me!
The dance it is a great thing, / A great thing to me, / With candles lit and partners fit / For night-long revelry; / And going home when day-dawning / Peeps pale upon the lea: / O dancing is a great thing, / A great thing to me!
Love is, yea, a great thing, / A great thing to me, / When, having drawn across the lawn / In darkness silently, / A figure flits like one a-wing / Out from the nearest tree: / O love is, yes, a great thing, / A great thing to me!
What this Textopian page supports
Great Things is listed on Textopian as a poem by Thomas Hardy, dated 1928 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: 1928 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Poetry, Romanticism, Lyric, Pastoral, Sentimentalism
- Length: 288 words
- Structure: 1 section, 4 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Fairly Easy (7th Grade)
Good citation fit
- Work identity for Great Things 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 structured in verse, employing rhythm and rhyme, characteristic of poetry.
- Romanticism — Themes of love, nature, and personal emotion are prevalent, aligning with Romantic ideals.
- Lyric — The expression of personal feelings and thoughts about love and joy indicates a lyrical style.
- Pastoral — The references to rural life and nature suggest a pastoral genre influence.
Tags
ambition · society · class · love · disillusionment · struggle · human nature · relationships · tragedy · hope · dreams · conflict