“For the Love of Barbara Allen”

Introduction

“For the Love of Barbara Allen” is a poignant ghost/love short story by Robert E. Howard. Written in the 1930s, it delves into themes of love, loss, and the haunting nature of memories through a narrative interwoven with the history of the American Civil War and the lingering impact it has on its characters. The story reflects Howard’s adeptness at combining rich, atmospheric storytelling with deeply human emotions.

Considered by some as one of REH’s twenty best stories.

The story is a touching exploration of love that transcends time, memory, and even death. Howard skillfully interweaves historical context with personal narrative, creating a story that resonates with the timeless theme of enduring love.

Summary

The story begins with an old man reminiscing about his past as he tries to sing the ballad “Barbara Allen.” His voice fails him, leading him to reflect on his brother Joel and Joel’s love for Rachel Ormond. Joel’s favorite song was “Barbara Allen,” and it was through this song that he first encountered Rachel. The memory transports the old man back to the Cumberlands, a place of natural beauty and youthful love.

As the old man recounts the past, he describes how Joel’s singing attracted Rachel, leading to their love. However, their romance was tragically cut short by the Civil War. Joel joined the cavalry under the command of Bedford Forrest, and it was during a skirmish that Joel was killed, leaving Rachel heartbroken. Despite moving to Texas with her family, Rachel never recovered from Joel’s death, remaining devoted to his memory.

The story shifts to the present day, where the old man learns from John Ormond that Rachel is dying. This news stirs vivid memories in the narrator’s mind, which are almost as tangible as the real world around him. As he tends to a fight between his horses, he is knocked unconscious and experiences a surreal vision.

In his vision, he is transported back to the Civil War, riding with the Confederate cavalry. He feels as though he is reliving the events of a past life. He witnesses a fierce battle and encounters his young grandfather, only to be shot and knocked unconscious again.

Upon waking, the narrator, now fully aware of his connection to Joel, rides to the Ormond house to see Rachel. Despite the years, Rachel recognizes him as Joel. He comforts her in her final moments, singing “Barbara Allen” on her old guitar. As he sings, Rachel peacefully passes away, finally reunited with her lost love in spirit.

Characters

  • Joel Grimes – The narrator’s uncle, a Confederate soldier killed during the Civil War, deeply loved by Rachel Ormond.
  • Rachel Ormond – The love interest of Joel Grimes, who remains devoted to his memory until her death.
  • John Grimes – The narrator, who experiences a surreal connection to his uncle Joel and realizes his true identity through a vision.
  • The Grandfather – An elderly man who reminisces about his brother Joel and the old days in Tennessee, narrating the story to John.
  • Bedford Forrest – The Confederate cavalry leader under whom Joel served.
  • Jim Ormond – A relative of Rachel, who informs John about Rachel’s dying state.
  • Doc Blaine – The doctor attending to Rachel Ormond during her final moments.

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