Side by Side by Thomas Hardy (1913)
The poem explores the complex emotions of two estranged individuals who find themselves seated next to each other in a church, evoking memories of their past relationship. The setting emphasizes their physical proximity while highlighting their emotional distance. They are depicted as a couple who once shared a deep bond but have since drifted apart, living separate lives. As they sit side by side, the atmosphere is charged with unspoken feelings and nostalgia. The imagery of their fingers nearly touching during the act of giving alms symbolizes the lingering connection between them, despite their estrangement. The church setting serves as a backdrop for reflection, where the rituals and hymns resonate with their shared history. The interaction is minimal, consisting of slight words exchanged, which underscores the tension and unresolved feelings between them. They choose to maintain the facade of unity for the sake of others, indicating a reluctance to confront their past openly. The poem concludes with a sense of finality, as they part ways after the service, suggesting that their paths will not cross again. Overall, the work captures the themes of lost love, the passage of time, and the complexities of human relationships, illustrating how proximity can coexist with emotional distance. The characters' decision to remain silent about their estrangement reflects a broader commentary on societal expectations and the masks people wear in public.
By Thomas Hardy · First published 1913 · Genre: Poetry, Romanticism, Drama · 287 words
First lines
SO there sat they, The estranged two, Thrust in one pew By chance that day; Placed so, breath-nigh, Each comer unwitting Who was to be sitting In touch close by.
Thus side by side Blindly alighted, They seemed united As groom and bride, Who'd not communed For many years- Lives from twain spheres With hearts distuned.
Her fringes brushed His garment's hem As the harmonies rushed Through each of them: Her lips could be heard In the creed and psalms, And their fingers neared At the giving of alms.
And women and men, The matins ended, By looks commended Them, joined again. Quickly said she, "Don't undeceive them- Better thus leave them: " "Quite so," said he.
What this Textopian page supports
Side by Side 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, Romanticism, Drama, Literary Fiction, Tragedy
- Length: 287 words
- Structure: 1 section, 5 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Easy (6th Grade)
Good citation fit
- Work identity for Side by Side by Thomas Hardy
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- Genre and topic classification from the Textopian catalog
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Discussion starters
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Similar titles
- The Rift by Thomas Hardy
- John And Jane by Thomas Hardy
- Mismet by Thomas Hardy
- The Seven Times by Thomas Hardy
- First Or Last by Thomas Hardy
- Penance by Thomas Hardy
Genres
- Poetry — The work is written in verse, employing rhythm and imagery typical of poetry.
- Romanticism — The themes of love, estrangement, and emotional connection reflect Romantic ideals.
- Drama — The tension between the characters and their past relationship creates a dramatic narrative.
- Literary Fiction — The focus on character development and emotional depth aligns with literary fiction.
Tags
love · friendship · betrayal · society · class · rural · conflict · human nature · relationships · tragedy · loyalty · loss