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The Tale of Balen   By: (1837-1909)

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The Tale of Balen by Algernon Charles Swinburne is a compelling and tragic story that takes readers on a journey filled with love, honor, and sacrifice. Set in the age of chivalry, this medieval romance explores the interplay between fate and human desires, leaving readers captivated from beginning to end.

Swinburne's vivid and lyrical writing style brings the world of knights and ladies to life, immersing readers in a richly detailed and atmospheric setting. The descriptive prose paints a vibrant picture of castles, treacherous forests, and battlefields, evoking a sense of both grandeur and danger.

At the heart of the story is Balen, a knight of great prowess but a tragic persona. With a mysterious curse hanging over him from birth, Balen faces a life filled with unrequited love, unanswered questions, and unspeakable loss. From his forbidden love for the Lady of the Isles to his relentless pursuit of justice, Balen's journey delves deep into themes of destiny and the consequences of one's actions.

The characters in The Tale of Balen are intriguing and well-developed, each with their own distinct motivations and hidden agendas. The interactions between Balen, his beloved Alicia, and the other knights are imbued with tension and emotional depth, keeping readers hooked on their intricate relationships. Swinburne masterfully weaves a complex web of love triangles, loyalty, and betrayal which further adds to the book's allure.

One of the strongest elements of this novel is its exploration of the constraints placed upon women in this era. Swinburne portrays the female characters as more than mere objects of desire, giving them agency and showcasing their resilience in the face of societal expectations. Whether it is Lady Alicia's determination or the Lady of the Isles' strength, these women challenge the stereotypes and assert their independence.

While The Tale of Balen is a beautifully written and emotionally charged tale, it may not be for readers who prefer fast-paced action or light-hearted stories. The narrative progresses slowly but deliberately, unfolding its many layers of symbolism and philosophical undertones. However, for those seeking a thought-provoking and poignant story, this book delivers in spades.

In conclusion, Algernon Charles Swinburne's The Tale of Balen is a mesmerizing and tragic medieval romance that explores themes of love, destiny, and the complexities of human nature. With its immersive setting, well-crafted characters, and lyrical prose, this timeless tale will leave readers contemplating its profound messages long after they finish the last page.

First Page:

PRINTED BY SPOTTISWOODE AND CO., NEW STREET SQUARE LONDON

THE TALE OF BALEN

BY ALGERNON CHARLES SWINBURNE

LONDON CHATTO & WINDUS, PICCADILLY 1896

Copyright in the United States, 1896, by CHARLES SCRIBNER’S SONS.

DEDICATION

TO MY MOTHER

Love that holds life and death in fee, Deep as the clear unsounded sea And sweet as life or death can be, Lays here my hope, my heart, and me Before you, silent, in a song. Since the old wild tale, made new, found grace, When half sung through, before your face, It needs must live a springtide space, While April suns grow strong.

March 24, 1896.

THE TALE OF BALEN

I

In hawthorn time the heart grows light, The world is sweet in sound and sight, Glad thoughts and birds take flower and flight, The heather kindles toward the light, The whin is frankincense and flame. And be it for strife or be it for love The falcon quickens as the dove When earth is touched from heaven above With joy that knows no name... Continue reading book >>




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