The Elopement by Thomas Hardy (1922)
The narrative centers on a passionate and unconventional romance between a young couple who decide to elope. The male protagonist reflects on their youthful love and the lengths they went to in order to escape societal norms. They concoct a plan where the woman disguises herself as an older version of herself to avoid detection, showcasing their desperation and commitment to each other. As they prepare for their elopement, they engage in a transformative act, altering her appearance to fit the guise of an elderly wife. This act symbolizes their rebellion against societal expectations and their desire for freedom. The protagonist recalls the thrill and urgency of their decision, emphasizing the emotional stakes involved. However, the narrative shifts as time passes. The couple's youthful passion is contrasted with the realities of life. The woman eventually conforms to societal norms, becoming a respectable and wealthy figure, which leads to a sense of loss for the protagonist. He reflects on how their adventurous spirit has been buried under the weight of convention and the passage of time. The story explores themes of love, identity, and the impact of societal expectations on personal relationships. It highlights the tension between youthful idealism and the compromises that often come with adulthood. The protagonist's reminiscence serves as a poignant reminder of the fleeting nature of passion and the inevitable changes that life brings. Ultimately, the narrative captures the bittersweet essence of love that once was, now overshadowed by the constraints of respectability and time.
By Thomas Hardy · First published 1922 · Genre: Poetry, Romance, Drama · 414 words
First lines
"A WOMAN never agreed to it! " said my knowing friend to me. / "That one thing she'd refuse to do for Solomon's mines in fee: / No woman ever will make herself look older than she is. " / I did not answer; but I thought, "you err there, ancient Quiz."
It took a rare one, true, to do it; for she was surely rare- / As rare a soul at that sweet time of her life as she was fair. / And urging motives, too, were strong, for ours was a passionate case, / Yea, passionate enough to lead to freaking with that young face.
What this Textopian page supports
The Elopement is listed on Textopian as a short story by Thomas Hardy, dated 1922 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: 1922 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Poetry, Romance, Drama, Literary Fiction, Historical Fiction
- Length: 414 words
- Structure: 1 section, 6 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Easy (6th Grade)
Good citation fit
- Work identity for The Elopement by Thomas Hardy
- Canonical title URL and first readable passage URL
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Similar titles
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Genres
- Poetry — The work is written in verse, employing poetic devices and structure.
- Romance — The central theme revolves around a passionate relationship and elopement.
- Drama — The narrative explores emotional conflicts and societal pressures faced by the characters.
- Literary Fiction — The work delves into complex themes of identity, time, and societal expectations.
Tags
romance · elopement · Victorian · love · society · class · conflict · betrayal · freedom · convention · desire · adventure