Author
Jane Barlow
1856-1917
Jane Barlow (1856-1917) is a public-domain author available on Rivro. Read free books, explore subjects, and discover related classics.
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Books by Jane Barlow
The End of Elfintown
"The End of Elfintown" by Jane Barlow is a poetic fantasy novel written in the late 19th century, specifically in the mid-1890s. This enchanting tale takes readers into a world of Elfin characters who grapple with the demands imposed upon them by their king, Oberon, and the ensuing troubles they face in their enchanted realm. The story likely weaves themes of magic, the struggle for freedom, and the contrast between labor and joy within a whimsical yet poignant setting. The narrative unfolds as Oberon becomes enchanted by the sights of a grand city and, spurred by his vision, commands his subjects—the Elfin folk—to build their own town, Elfintown. However, the relentless labor leads the Elves to a state of discontent as they yearn for the playful and carefree existence they once enjoyed. As dissatisfaction mounts, a council of Elves convenes to discuss their grievances and ultimately uncovers that Oberon's madness stems from a spell cast by the malevolent Bad Brown Witch. To reclaim their joy and freedom, Elfmel sets off on a perilous quest to seek the help of the Good Gray Witch, leading to a turning point where the fate of Elfintown hangs in the balance, culminating in its destruction to break Oberon's enchantment. Through lyrical verse, Barlow explores themes of obligation, the loss of innocence, and the value of true happiness against the backdrop of Elfin lore.
Strangers at Lisconnel
"Strangers at Lisconnel" by Jane Barlow is a novel written in the late 19th century. The book appears to explore life in a small Irish hamlet, focusing on the inhabitants' daily struggles and relationships, with particular attention to themes of companionship, loss, and the impact of both time and change. The character of Mrs. Kilfoyle and her connections with her neighbors are introduced, hinting at personal histories intertwined with the broader community's narrative. The opening of the novel vividly sets the scene in Lisconnel, a hamlet characterized by its isolated location and the simplicity of rural life. It introduces the daily rhythms of its residents, such as Mrs. Kilfoyle and Mrs. M'Gurk, who engage in conversations reflecting on their families and the passage of time. As they await the infrequent visits from neighbors, the text conveys a sense of nostalgia and resignation, highlighting how long-standing relationships and memories shape their interactions. The dialogue brings to life the characters' personalities and hints at their deeper stories, creating an expectation of a rich exploration of their lives throughout the novel.
A creel of Irish stories
"A Creel of Irish Stories" by Jane Barlow is a collection of short stories written in the late 19th century. The opening segment introduces readers to the tranquil and picturesque valley of Letterglas, an almost untouched landscape that serves as a backdrop for tales of local life. The narrative seems to weave in themes of childhood wonder, familial connections, and the mysteries that often shroud both personal histories and the natural world. The opening of the text focuses on a young girl named Eileen Fitzmaurice, who is depicted exploring her surroundings with an inquisitive spirit. Eileen's imagination leads her to believe that a large stone near her home could be a hidden treasure chest filled with family silver, reflecting her longing for connection to her past and sense of ownership of lost grandeur. As she navigates her childhood with whimsical thoughts, the story hints at deeper family secrets and the socio-economic struggles of rural life. The rich descriptions and the mystery surrounding the stone creates an engaging, atmospheric beginning that invites readers to delve into Barlow's world of Irish folklore and storytelling.
By beach and bog-land : $b Some Irish stories
"By Beach and Bog-land: Some Irish Stories" by Jane Barlow is a collection of short stories written in the early 20th century. The book focuses on rural Irish life, exploring the daily hardships, joys, and superstitions of communities set amid bogs, beaches, and small villages. The stories seem to center around ordinary people—farmers, widows, soldiers, and families—depicting their struggles with poverty, loss, longing, and resilience within the context of Irish culture. With sympathetic portrayals and vivid local color, the collection likely appeals to readers interested in Irish social history, folklore, or character-driven storytelling. The opening of the book introduces readers to the remote village of Clonmalroan, where isolation heightens the impact of world events, such as war, on the local residents. The first story centers on Lady Winifred, who is left alone in the "Big House" after her husband, a captain, is called away to war, and on Widow Connor, whose son Terry also serves as a soldier. The narrative explores their shared anxieties as they await news, painting a poignant picture of fear, waiting, and community during troubled times. Through nuanced scenes—like Lady Winifred’s anxious watch for a letter, the villagers' desperate attempts to read war reports, and the superstitions that arise amid loss—the opening establishes a deeply human and atmospheric portrait of Irish rural life affected by distant, life-changing events.
Bog-land studies
"Bog-Land Studies" by J. Barlow is a collection of stories written in the late 19th century. This work presents a vivid portrayal of life in rural Ireland, particularly focusing on themes of loss, community, and the intimate connections between people and their landscape. Through its characters and narrative voice, the book delves into the emotional and physical struggles faced by its inhabitants, reflecting on both personal and societal challenges. The opening of "Bog-Land Studies" introduces us to the reflective voice of a villager lamenting the loss and gradual decline of life in their community, especially regarding their treasured connections to the land and the ocean. It sets the stage with the memories of the “ould master” and his son, Denis, who leaves for Australia, leaving a void and initiating a series of misfortunes for the community. As Denis’s absence becomes palpable, the narrative recounts the changing seasons and the ensuing troubles, illustrating how the passage of time affects both the landscape and the people tied to it, all while casting a somber tone over the rural existence marked by uncertainty and longing.