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An Old Town By the Sea   By: (1836-1907)

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An Old Town By the Sea by Thomas Bailey Aldrich is a charming and delightful book that takes readers on a virtual journey to a quaint coastal town. Set in the picturesque New England village of Portsmouth, the narrative effortlessly transports one to the past, allowing for a nostalgic exploration of the town's rich history and vibrant community.

One of the striking qualities of this book is Aldrich's vivid and lyrical prose, which captures the essence of the town and its inhabitants. With each page, the author unveils a remarkable tapestry of stories: the lives of fishermen, sailors, and merchants who made Portsmouth their home. The attention to detail is commendable, as Aldrich presents every aspect of the town with precision and elegance, from its cobblestone streets to the weathered facades of its colonial houses.

The pace of the narrative is steady, allowing readers to fully immerse themselves in the beautiful descriptions and character-driven anecdotes. Aldrich's words paint a vivid picture of a bygone era, evoking a sense of nostalgia for a simpler time. Through his thoughtful observations, he introduces us to a cast of fascinating individuals, each with their unique quirks, passions, and dreams.

The author's insightful commentary on the human condition renders An Old Town By the Sea a timeless piece of literature. While the book focuses on Portsmouth, it transcends its geographical boundaries, exploring universal themes of love, loss, and the pursuit of happiness. Aldrich effortlessly weaves these emotions into his narrative, making it relatable and thought-provoking for readers of any era.

In addition to its literary merits, this book also serves as an invaluable historical document. Aldrich's firsthand accounts of life in Portsmouth during the 19th century provide a valuable glimpse into the past, shedding light on the social, cultural, and economic aspects of the time. History enthusiasts will appreciate the wealth of information and the authentic portrayal of a long-gone era.

However, some readers might find the occasional digressions and lengthy descriptions to be a bit excessive and slow down the narrative. Furthermore, as Aldrich writes primarily from his own perspective as an outsider, the book may lack a certain depth and understanding of the town's inner workings.

Overall, An Old Town By the Sea is a charming and evocative book that captures the spirit of a charming coastal town with grace and beauty. Through Aldrich's eloquent prose, readers are transported to a different time and place, immersing themselves in the lives and stories of the people who, once upon a time, called Portsmouth their home. It is a book that will resonate with anyone who appreciates history, nostalgia, and the power of a well-crafted narrative.

First Page:

AN OLD TOWN BY THE SEA

by Thomas Bailey Aldrich

PISCATAQUA RIVER

Thou singest by the gleaming isles, By woods, and fields of corn, Thou singest, and the sunlight smiles Upon my birthday morn.

But I within a city, I, So full of vague unrest, Would almost give my life to lie An hour upon upon thy breast.

To let the wherry listless go, And, wrapt in dreamy joy, Dip, and surge idly to and fro, Like the red harbor buoy;

To sit in happy indolence, To rest upon the oars, And catch the heavy earthy scents That blow from summer shores;

To see the rounded sun go down, And with its parting fires Light up the windows of the town And burn the tapering spires;

And then to hear the muffled tolls From steeples slim and white, And watch, among the Isles of Shoals, The Beacon's orange light.

O River! flowing to the main Through woods, and fields of corn, Hear thou my longing and my pain This sunny birthday morn;

And take this song which fancy shapes To music like thine own, And sing it to the cliffs and capes And crags where I am known!

CONTENTS

I. CAPTAIN JOHN SMITH II. ALONG THE WATER SIDE III... Continue reading book >>




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