News for her Mother by Thomas Hardy
The poem explores the speaker's emotional journey as they approach their mother's home, reflecting on themes of love, longing, and the complexities of relationships. The speaker expresses excitement about the harvest season, symbolizing abundance and joy, yet simultaneously grapples with feelings of uncertainty regarding a romantic commitment. As the speaker draws closer to their mother, they convey a sense of nostalgia and attachment to their childhood surroundings, emphasizing the deep bond with their mother. The speaker reassures their mother not to fear the changes that come with love and marriage, suggesting that many have navigated similar paths before. However, an underlying tension arises as the speaker questions whether their romantic choice will create a rift between them and their mother. This internal conflict highlights the struggle between personal desires and familial loyalty. The imagery of familiar places evokes a sense of home, yet the speaker fears that their new relationship may alter their connection with their mother. Ultimately, the poem captures the bittersweet nature of growing up and the inevitable changes that accompany love and commitment, while underscoring the enduring bond between parent and child. The speaker's reflections reveal a deep emotional landscape, marked by both joy and apprehension as they navigate the transition from childhood to adulthood.
By Thomas Hardy · First published 1917 · Genre: Poetry, Romanticism, Lyric · 268 words
First lines
I. ONE mile more is Where your door is Mother mine! - Harvest's coming, Mills are strumming, Apples fine, And the cider made to-year will be as wine.
II. Yet, not viewing What's a-doing Here around Is it thrills me, And so fills me That I bound Like a ball or leaf or lamb along the ground.
III. Tremble not now At your lot now, Silly soul! Hosts have sped them Quick to wed them, Great and small, Since the first two sighing half-hearts made a whole.
IV. Yet I wonder, Will it sunder Her from me? Will she guess that I said "Yes,"-that His I'd be, Ere I thought she might not see him as I see!
What this Textopian page supports
News for her Mother is listed on Textopian as a short story by Thomas Hardy, dated 1917 CE.
This source record anchors work identity, reading entry points, and catalog context for checking claims about the work.
- Work type: Short story
- Author: Thomas Hardy
- Date: 1917 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Poetry, Romanticism, Lyric, Sentimentalism, Nature Writing
- Length: 268 words
- Structure: 1 section, 5 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Very Easy (5th Grade or below)
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Similar titles
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Genres
- Poetry — The work is structured in verse and employs poetic devices, focusing on emotional expression and imagery.
- Romanticism — Themes of love, nature, and personal reflection are prevalent, characteristic of the Romantic genre.
- Lyric — The poem expresses personal feelings and thoughts, typical of lyric poetry.
- Sentimentalism — The emotional depth and focus on familial bonds reflect sentimental themes.
Tags
family · communication · loss · grief · mother-daughter relationship · rural life · 19th century · English literature · social commentary · emotional conflict · personal tragedy · identity