Author
Robert Herrick
1591-1674
Robert Herrick (1591-1674) is a public-domain author available on Rivro. Read free books, explore subjects, and discover related classics.
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Books by Robert Herrick
The Hesperides & Noble Numbers: Vol. 1 and 2
"The Hesperides & Noble Numbers: Vol. 1 and 2" by Robert Herrick is a collection of poetry published in 1648. This monumental work contains 1200 lyrical poems that established the English Cavalier poet's lasting reputation. Rich with carpe diem themes urging readers to seize the day, the collection includes immortal verses about gathering rosebuds and the fleeting nature of time. From celebrations of youth and beauty to reflections on mortality, Herrick's poems capture both human passion and divine contemplation in memorable, flowing language.
A Selection from the Lyrical Poems of Robert Herrick
"A Selection from the Lyrical Poems of Robert Herrick" by Robert Herrick is a curated anthology of lyrical poetry crafted during the 17th century. This collection highlights Herrick's diverse themes, most notably his reflections on nature, love, and rural life, evoking a pastoral charm that resonates with readers. The preface and arrangement by Francis Turner Palgrave emphasize the need for this selection to make Herrick's work accessible to a broader audience, underscoring the poet's unique style and contributions to English poetry. The beginning of this collection introduces Herrick as a poet who encapsulates the beauty and simplicity of rural life, emphasizing his affinity for the elements of nature and the vibrancy of seasonal festivities. Herrick's poems celebrate the joys of youth, love, and the changing seasons, weaving an intimate tapestry of images that captivate the reader's imagination. The introductory pieces reflect his playful spirit and dedication to the arts, as he evokes themes of companionship, celebration, and the passage of time, setting the stage for a collection that delights in the lyrical expression and merriment of life.
One Woman's Life
"One Woman's Life" by Robert Herrick is a novel written in the early 20th century. The story is centered around Milly Ridge, a young girl navigating her adolescence and social ambitions in late 19th century Chicago. As she grapples with her family's unstable circumstances after her mother's death, Milly's aspirations grow increasingly focused on achieving a more refined social status, which leads her on a journey of self-discovery and the pursuit of love. The opening of the book introduces Milly as she arrives at her new home on West Laurence Avenue in Chicago, expressing disappointment at the dingy surroundings that starkly contrast her idealized expectations of a proper home. At just sixteen, Milly's fiery spirit and desire for a better life are evident as she rebels against her grandmother's disapproving authority and struggles to accept her family's new status. The narrative highlights her conflicting feelings about home, identity, and social aspiration, setting the stage for her future endeavors and relationships as she seeks to elevate her standing in society. The reader is drawn into Milly's world of youthful ambition, personal challenges, and the complexities of growing up amid societal pressures.
Together
"Together" by Robert Herrick is a novel likely written during the early 20th century. The book begins with the wedding ceremony of Isabelle and John, exploring the complex emotions and thoughts of the bride as she transitions from her past to her new life. The opening captures the tension between tradition and individual aspirations, hinting at deeper issues of identity, intimacy, and societal expectations in the context of marriage. At the start of the novel, the scene unfolds in a chapel where Isabelle prepares to marry John. As she stands before the minister, her mind drifts between the solemnity of the moment and the impending changes in her life. Although she is physically present, she feels a sense of detachment from those around her, especially from John, whom she suddenly perceives as a stranger. The narrative conveys her reflections on the vows being exchanged, the meaning of fidelity, and her father's emotional farewell. Following the ceremony, the focus shifts to the reception, where the festivities begin, contrasting the gravity of the nuptials with the light chatter of guests. However, even amidst the celebration, Isabelle grapples with the reality that marriage is not merely a ceremony but a complex union that might bring unexpected challenges. The opening portion sets the stage for exploring themes of love, expectation, and personal fulfillment in the private and public spheres of life.
The Web of Life
"The Web of Life" by Robert Herrick is a novel likely written in the early 20th century. The story begins in a hospital setting where a young surgeon, Dr. Sommers, is faced with the urgent case of a man suffering from gunshot wounds. The narrative introduces the complexities of human relationships, particularly focusing on the man's wife, Mrs. Preston, who is emotionally entangled with her husband despite the turmoil he has caused in her life. The opening of the book reveals a tense atmosphere in the hospital as Dr. Sommers prepares to operate on the gravely injured patient. The scene is captured through the interactions of the hospital staff, highlighting the tensions and emotions surrounding the case. Mrs. Preston presents a poignant figure, torn between her duty as a wife and her desire to escape the pain inflicted by her husband's reckless lifestyle. As the surgeon grapples with the critical situation, the story begins to unfold themes of love, sacrifice, and the harsh realities of life, setting the stage for an exploration of the interconnected lives of its characters.
Clark's Field
"Clark's Field" by Robert Herrick is a novel written in the early 20th century. The narrative begins with a return to the protagonist's hometown, Alton, where he reflects on the changes that have obliterated his childhood landmarks, particularly an open land known as Clark's Field. This place, significant to his youth and imagination, has been transformed into urban development, symbolizing the loss of memory and innocence. The opening portion introduces the narrator as he revisits his childhood home and laments the transformation of Clark's Field, intertwined with his memories of freedom and adventure. He describes the field's past significance, where he and his friends played without parental supervision, and contrasts it with the modern landscape of brick and mortar that has replaced it. The narrative also hints at deeper family dynamics, particularly the story of the Clark family, their struggles, and the mysterious legal entanglements surrounding the field. As the narrator's memories unfold against the backdrop of change, they set the stage for exploring themes of loss, identity, and the passage of time throughout the novel.
Literary Love-Letters and Other Stories
"Literary Love-Letters and Other Stories" by Robert Herrick is a collection of short stories likely written during the late 19th century. The book presents a series of narratives that reflect on themes of love, identity, and the complexities of human relationships, woven together through the art of letter writing. The opening portion introduces characters engaged in a poignant exchange of literary love letters that highlight their emotional entanglements and self-reflections. The beginning of "Literary Love-Letters and Other Stories" sets the stage with a character named Eastlake, who reminisces about a chance meeting with a woman named Miss Armstrong. In his missive, he expresses longing and nostalgia, recalling moments from their past and contemplating the depth of their connection. Miss Armstrong responds candidly, questioning the authenticity of Eastlake's sentiments and urging him to engage more earnestly with life rather than play with words. The dynamic between these two characters encapsulates the emotional tension that often accompanies romantic relationships, hinting at their complexities while teasing the reader with the promise of further revelations and developments in their correspondence.
The World Decision
"The World Decision" by Robert Herrick is a historical account written during the early 20th century. This work delves into the complexities of Italy's political landscape during the tumultuous period leading up to its decision to enter World War I, exploring the psychological and social forces that influenced national sentiment amid external pressures and internal rivalries. The opening of the text sets the stage for the profound hesitation and deliberation within Italy as the country teeters on the brink of war. Herrick provides a vivid account of public sentiment in Naples and Rome, capturing the anxiety and quietude permeating Italian society as citizens grapple with their national identity amidst rampant rumors and impatient political maneuvering. As Italy's leaders engage in secret negotiations with Austria and the Allies, external events like the sinking of the Lusitania ignite national fervor, leading to a dramatic shift in public opinion and culminating in the rallying cry against perceived Teutonic aggressions. The narrative reveals the intricate interplay between political figures, renowned activists like the poet D’Annunzio, and the general populace’s evolving outlook toward war, all while highlighting the underlying themes of duty, nationalism, and the human struggle for civilization.
The Memoirs of an American Citizen
"The Memoirs of an American Citizen" by Robert Herrick is a historical novel written in the early 20th century. The story revolves around E.V. Harrington, a young man from Indiana who, after experiencing a series of setbacks and misadventures, finds himself in Chicago. The narrative explores themes of ambition, struggle, and the quest for identity as he navigates his place in a bustling and harsh urban environment. The beginning of the novel introduces Harrington's challenging introduction to life in Chicago as a homeless wanderer. In an opening scene, he spent his first night outdoors by the lakefront, illustrating his desperate situation. As he befriends fellow drifter Ed Hostetter, the two guys seek employment, only to face various obstacles, including a wrongful accusation of theft on Harrington’s part. This sets the stage for his struggles with societal judgments and his desire to rise above his circumstances through determined efforts to find work and regain his self-respect. The initial chapters establish the backdrop for his future adventures and the evolution of his character amidst the chaos of urban life.
His Great Adventure
"His Great Adventure" by Robert Herrick is a novel written in the early 20th century. The story opens in the bustling streets of New York City, focusing on a young man named Edgar Brainard who is grappling with the harsh realities of life, feeling weighed down by failure and poverty. His life takes a dramatic turn after a chance encounter with an elderly man who needs his assistance, leading to a frantic adventure of intrigue, moral dilemmas, and unexpected opportunities. The beginning of the novel establishes the atmosphere and character dynamics effectively. Edgar Brainard is depicted as a down-on-his-luck writer, navigating through the crowded streets with a deep sense of hopelessness. His trajectory shifts when he encounters a collapsed businessman, H. Krutzmacht, and impulsively decides to help him. As Brainard tends to Krutzmacht, he learns of a hidden safe containing valuable papers that could change his life. In a rush of adrenaline and a burgeoning sense of purpose, he embarks on a mission that blurs the lines between right and wrong, setting the stage for a thrilling adventure filled with potential consequences and transformative moments.
The gospel of freedom
"The Gospel of Freedom" by Robert Herrick is a novel written in the late 19th century. The story revolves around Simeon Erard, a struggling artist in Paris, and his interactions with his visitors, including the Anthon family. The themes of ambition, artistic integrity, and societal expectations are explored through Erard's relationships and the contrasting values of those around him. The opening of the novel introduces us to Simeon Erard as he shows his artwork to Mrs. Anthon and her family. Amid their bemused reactions to his paintings, especially a depiction of a woman in a bath, the narrative touches upon the dynamics of artistic expression and the differing perspectives of the characters on art and success. The descriptions are rich and provide insights into Erard's character—an artist who is both desperate for recognition and disdainful of typical societal judgments. The chapter establishes the backdrop of Paris as a place where artistic ambition and societal pressures collide, setting the stage for deeper explorations of identity, aspiration, and the quest for meaningful expression.
Their Child
"Their Child" by Robert Herrick is a novel written in the early 20th century. The story explores the complex dynamics of family life, focusing on the challenges faced by parents as they navigate their relationships and responsibilities toward their child amid emotional turmoil. It reflects on themes such as parental anxiety, the nature of moral inheritance, and the fears surrounding childhood behavior. The narrative follows Mr. and Mrs. Simmons, whose young son, Oscar, exhibits troubling behavior that escalates into violence. The plot begins with a gathering at their home, where the family's struggles become apparent when Oscar lashes out, leading to a significant incident involving his nurse. As the story unfolds, Mrs. Simmons grapples with the fear that their child's aggression is linked to a genetic inheritance from his paternal grandfather, Oscar Svenson, a man known for violent outbursts. The tension between the couple mounts as they confront their child's potential fate, revealing their own insecurities and various coping strategies, including social outings and external relationships. Ultimately, they must reconcile their fears and unite as parents to fight for the well-being of their son, illustrating the profound effects of past legacies on contemporary lives.
The Conscript Mother
"The Conscript Mother" by Robert Herrick is a novel written in the early 20th century, specifically during the tumultuous time preceding and during World War I. The book explores the emotional landscape of a mother, Signora Maironi, as she navigates the impact of conscription and impending war on her son, Enrico, who is about to be sent to the front lines. The storyline sheds light on the fears, hopes, and sacrifices faced by families caught in the tide of war. The narrative follows Signora Maironi's journey as she seeks to find her son, who is in military service, amidst the anxieties stirred by the prospect of war. As the tension in Italy rises, she reflects on her young son's health and her fears for his safety. The story depicts their brief but poignant reunions, filled with love and apprehension, highlighting the personal cost of war on families. Ultimately, as Signora Maironi struggles to maintain hope and connection, the novel poignantly illustrates the heart-wrenching reality for mothers and families as their loved ones are thrust into the dangers of battle, culminating in the inevitable tragedies of war.
The Common Lot
"The Common Lot" by Robert Herrick is a novel written in the early 20th century. The story begins at the funeral of Powers Jackson, a self-made industrialist, and follows his nephew, Jackson Hart, as he navigates the impact of his uncle's death and the unexpected consequences of the will that reveals his uncle's philanthropic intentions. The narrative offers a glimpse into the complexities of human relationships, class struggles, and moral dilemmas. At the start of the novel, the atmosphere is somber as mourners gather to pay their respects to Powers Jackson. Among them are Jackson Hart and a young woman named Helen Spellman, both grappling with their feelings about the deceased. As the funeral proceedings unfold, the young architect reflects on his complicated relationship with his late uncle, who had both supported and governed his life choices. Soon after, the reading of the will shocks Jackson, revealing that most of his uncle's fortune is earmarked for a school for working-class children, leaving him with a modest inheritance. This turn of events catalyzes Jackson's inner turmoil and sets the stage for his struggle to redefine his identity and ambitions in a city fueled by wealth and ambition.
The Man Who Wins
"The Man Who Wins" by Robert Herrick is a novel written in the late 19th century. The story revolves around the Ellwell family and their complex relationships, tracing their decline from respectable New England lineage to a life plagued by scandal and addiction. The reader is introduced to various family members, particularly John Ellwell, whose reckless choices lead to the family's downfall, contrasted with his sister Leonora, who navigates the challenges posed by their diminished status in society. At the start of the novel, the reader gets a vivid description of the Ellwell family history and their estate known as the Four Corners in Middleton. The narrative explores the generational shifts within the family, particularly focusing on John Ellwell's morally questionable lifestyle and his father's attempts to maintain the family’s reputation. Through scenes of camaraderie among college students and descriptions of familial dynamics, the opening sets the stage for a deeper exploration of themes such as social status, moral decay, and the consequences of familial legacy. The introduction of young characters like Roper Thornton suggests a potential intertwining of lives that may challenge the family’s troubled legacy.
The Master of the Inn
"The Master of the Inn" by Robert Herrick is a novel written in the early 20th century. Set against the backdrop of a picturesque New England inn that has evolved from a colonial tavern into a haven for weary souls, the story explores themes of healing, community, and self-discovery. The narrative follows Doctor Augustus Norton, who becomes the 'Master' of this inn, offering refuge not only from physical ailments but from the emotional struggles that accompany the pressures of modern life. The plot centers on Dr. Norton and the various men who come to the inn seeking solace and transformation. Each resident, be it a famous surgeon or a wayward artist, finds not only support but also a sense of brotherhood among their peers. Through a blend of hard labor, conversation, and the beauty of their natural surroundings, the men learn to confront their inner demons and reclaim their vitality. The Master’s healing philosophy—rooted in work, camaraderie, and a deep respect for the human spirit—reveals that true recovery comes from within, making the inn a crucible for personal rebirth. This warmth and nurturing environment contrasts sharply with the tragedies of their pasts, leading to a poignant exploration of love, loss, and the quest for purpose. As the narrative unfolds, the impact of Norton's teachings culminates in a profound realization about the nature of life and the interconnectedness of all.