The Century Illustrated Monthly Magazine, September, 1913 Vol. LXXXVI, No. 5

A vivid slice of 1913 unfolds in this issue, beginning with a striking bronze group that captures the victorious American polo team in triumphant detail. The plate‑by‑plate artistry is followed by a playful yet earnest poem, “Love by Lightning,” that promises a candid look at romance, family quirks, and the occasional divine flourish. The editor’s notes preserve the original spelling and dialect, giving listeners a true sense of the period’s voice.

The poem’s narrator wrestles with a whirlwind of emotions after a sudden visit from a mysterious duke, an overbearing aunt, and a hurried departure to the Harpeth Hills. Along the way, she paints the countryside with fragrant honeysuckle, delicate spring mist, and the lingering scent of pine, all while questioning the rush of her own choices. The piece balances wit and vulnerability, inviting listeners into a personal journey that feels both historic and unmistakably human.