The Triumph of Youth

Name: The Triumph of Youth
Author: Voltairine De Cleyre

This essay explores the concept of youth and its relationship to social change. The author argues that youth are naturally rebellious and inclined towards revolution due to their idealism and desire for freedom. They see themselves as outsiders, rejecting the conventions and values of society. The text describes how youth often feel stifled by the constraints of adulthood and seek to break free from these limitations. This can lead to a sense of disillusionment with mainstream culture and a desire to create something new. The author suggests that this energy and idealism are essential for driving social change, but also notes that it can be fleeting and easily co-opted by those in power.

By Voltairine De Cleyre · First published 1913 · Genre: Literary Fiction, Philosophical Fiction, Romance · 3,664 words

First lines

The afternoon blazed and glittered along the motionless treetops and down into the yellow dust of the road. Under the shadows of the trees, among the powdered grass and bushes, sat a woman and a man. The man was young and handsome in a way, with a lean eager face and burning eyes, a forehead in the old poetic mould crowned by loose dark waves of hair; his chin was long, his lips parted devouringly and his glances seemed to eat his companion's face. It was not a pretty face, not even ordinarily good looking -- sallow, not young, only youngish; but there was a peculiar mobility about it, that made one notice it. She waved her hand slowly from East to West, indicating the horizon, and said dreamingly: "How wide it is, how far it is! One can get one's breath. In the city I always feel that the walls are squeezing my chest. " After a little silence she asked without looking at him: "What are you thinking of, Bernard?"

What this Textopian page supports

The Triumph of Youth is listed on Textopian as a short story by Voltairine De Cleyre, dated 1913 CE.

This source record anchors work identity, reading entry points, and catalog context for checking claims about the work.

Work type: Short story
Author: Voltairine De Cleyre
Date: 1913 CE
Language: English
Genres: Literary Fiction, Philosophical Fiction, Romance, Drama, Social Commentary
Length: 3,664 words
Structure: 1 section, 55 paragraphs
Reading fit: Easy (6th Grade)

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Discussion starters

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Similar titles

Genres

Literary Fiction — The work explores complex themes of youth, beauty, and the passage of time through nuanced character interactions and introspective dialogue.
Philosophical Fiction — It delves into philosophical questions about the nature of beauty, aging, and the human experience, prompting readers to reflect on deeper existential themes.
Romance — The central relationship between the characters embodies romantic tension and emotional complexity, highlighting the interplay between love and the inevitability of aging.
Drama — The narrative is driven by intense emotional exchanges and conflicts, creating a dramatic atmosphere that underscores the characters' struggles.