Excelsior By: Bret Harte (1836-1902)
In Bret Harte's novel, Excelsior, readers are transported to the rugged landscapes of the California Gold Rush era. Harte's rich and evocative prose effortlessly captures the spirit of the time, immersing us in a world filled with hope, greed, and the relentless pursuit of fortune. Set against the backdrop of a small mining town, the story revolves around a diverse cast of characters, each driven by their own ambitions and secrets. From the determined prospectors seeking their fortunes to the cunning businessmen attempting to exploit their dreams, Harte skillfully brings each personality to life through vivid descriptions and authentic dialogue. The novel's greatest strength lies in its exploration of human nature. Harte delves deep into the hearts and minds of his characters, exposing their flaws, virtues, and the complex decisions they face. The author's deep understanding of human psychology is evident as he weaves together their individual narratives, delving into themes of greed, redemption, and the consequences of one's actions. Excelsior also shines in its portrayal of the unforgiving nature of the frontier. Harte's descriptions of the treacherous landscape mirror the hardships endured by those who ventured west in search of a better life. The constant battle against the elements adds an atmospheric intensity to the story, serving as a stark reminder that the pursuit of wealth often comes at a great personal cost. While the novel is primarily character-driven, Harte's attention to historical detail is commendable. From the minutiae of everyday life in a mining town to the cultural clashes between various ethnic groups, the author paints a vivid picture of the era. Through his nuanced portrayal of the social dynamics and tensions of the time, Harte invites readers to reflect on the broader themes of prejudice, identity, and the changing landscape of a nation in the throes of rapid change. However, some readers may find the novel's pacing to be slightly uneven. At times, the narrative lingers on certain subplots, while rushing through others. Nevertheless, Harte's elegant prose and his ability to create engaging and memorable characters compensate for any minor pacing issues, resulting in a story that captivates from beginning to end. Overall, Excelsior is a masterful depiction of an era defined by its dreams, struggles, and complexities. Bret Harte's evocative writing and insightful exploration of the human condition create a compelling narrative that lingers long after the final page is turned. First Page: "EXCELSIOR" BY Bret Harte PRESENTED BY ENOCH MORGAN'S SONS CO. NEW YORK. [Illustration] The shades of night were falling fast, As through an Eastern village passed A youth who bore, through dust and heat, A stencil plate, that read complete "SAPOLIO." [Illustration] CLEAN PAINT, OIL CLOTHS, FLOORS, WOOD WORK, TABLES & SHELVES WITH SAPOLIO. [Illustration] His brow was sad, but underneath, White with "Odonto" shone his teeth, And through them hissed the words, "Well, blow Me tight if here is 'ary show!" "SAPOLIO." [Illustration] WASH DISHES, PORCELAIN, CHINA & GLASS WARE WITH SAPOLIO. [Illustration] On household fences, gleaming bright, Shone "Gargling Oil," in black and white, Once "Bixby's Blacking" stood alone, He straight beside it clapped his own "SAPOLIO." [Illustration] POLISH MILK CANS & PANS AND ALL KINDS OF TIN WARE WITH SAPOLIO. [Illustration] "Try not my fence," the old man said, "With 'Mustang Liniment' 'tis spread, Another vacant spot thar aint." He answered with a dash of paint "SAPOLIO." [Illustration] CLEAN STEEL KNIVES & FORKS AND ALL METALLIC TOOLS AND UTENSILS WITH SAPOLIO... Continue reading book >>

Excelsior By: Bret Harte (1836-1902)

In Bret Harte's novel, Excelsior, readers are transported to the rugged landscapes of the California Gold Rush era. Harte's rich and evocative prose effortlessly captures the spirit of the time, immersing us in a world filled with hope, greed, and the relentless pursuit of fortune.

Set against the backdrop of a small mining town, the story revolves around a diverse cast of characters, each driven by their own ambitions and secrets. From the determined prospectors seeking their fortunes to the cunning businessmen attempting to exploit their dreams, Harte skillfully brings each personality to life through vivid descriptions and authentic dialogue.

The novel's greatest strength lies in its exploration of human nature. Harte delves deep into the hearts and minds of his characters, exposing their flaws, virtues, and the complex decisions they face. The author's deep understanding of human psychology is evident as he weaves together their individual narratives, delving into themes of greed, redemption, and the consequences of one's actions.

Excelsior also shines in its portrayal of the unforgiving nature of the frontier. Harte's descriptions of the treacherous landscape mirror the hardships endured by those who ventured west in search of a better life. The constant battle against the elements adds an atmospheric intensity to the story, serving as a stark reminder that the pursuit of wealth often comes at a great personal cost.

While the novel is primarily character-driven, Harte's attention to historical detail is commendable. From the minutiae of everyday life in a mining town to the cultural clashes between various ethnic groups, the author paints a vivid picture of the era. Through his nuanced portrayal of the social dynamics and tensions of the time, Harte invites readers to reflect on the broader themes of prejudice, identity, and the changing landscape of a nation in the throes of rapid change.

However, some readers may find the novel's pacing to be slightly uneven. At times, the narrative lingers on certain subplots, while rushing through others. Nevertheless, Harte's elegant prose and his ability to create engaging and memorable characters compensate for any minor pacing issues, resulting in a story that captivates from beginning to end.

Overall, Excelsior is a masterful depiction of an era defined by its dreams, struggles, and complexities. Bret Harte's evocative writing and insightful exploration of the human condition create a compelling narrative that lingers long after the final page is turned.

First Page:

"EXCELSIOR" BY Bret Harte

PRESENTED BY ENOCH MORGAN'S SONS CO. NEW YORK.

[Illustration]

The shades of night were falling fast, As through an Eastern village passed A youth who bore, through dust and heat, A stencil plate, that read complete "SAPOLIO."

[Illustration]

CLEAN PAINT, OIL CLOTHS, FLOORS, WOOD WORK, TABLES & SHELVES WITH SAPOLIO.

[Illustration]

His brow was sad, but underneath, White with "Odonto" shone his teeth, And through them hissed the words, "Well, blow Me tight if here is 'ary show!" "SAPOLIO."

[Illustration]

WASH DISHES, PORCELAIN, CHINA & GLASS WARE WITH SAPOLIO.

[Illustration]

On household fences, gleaming bright, Shone "Gargling Oil," in black and white, Once "Bixby's Blacking" stood alone, He straight beside it clapped his own "SAPOLIO."

[Illustration]

POLISH MILK CANS & PANS AND ALL KINDS OF TIN WARE WITH SAPOLIO.

[Illustration]

"Try not my fence," the old man said, "With 'Mustang Liniment' 'tis spread, Another vacant spot thar aint." He answered with a dash of paint "SAPOLIO."

[Illustration]

CLEAN STEEL KNIVES & FORKS AND ALL METALLIC TOOLS AND UTENSILS WITH SAPOLIO... Continue reading book >>

Genres for this book
Humor
Literature
Poetry

eBook links
Wikipedia – Bret Harte
Wikipedia – Excelsior

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