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The Habitant and Other French-Canadian Poems   By: (1854-1907)

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The Habitant and Other French-Canadian Poems by William Henry Drummond is a captivating collection that offers a unique glimpse into the beauty and complexity of the French-Canadian culture. Drummond’s masterful poetry beautifully captures the essence of the habitation lifestyle, from the struggles of the habitants to their deep sense of community and love for their land.

One of the highlights of this collection is Drummond’s ability to bring the characters to life through his vivid and emotive language. Each poem feels like a window into their lives, allowing readers to connect with their joys, sorrows, and everyday experiences. Drummond skillfully weaves humor, tenderness, and nostalgia into his verses, creating a nuanced portrayal of the habitants' way of life.

Moreover, Drummond’s use of the French-Canadian dialect adds an extra layer of authenticity to the poems. While it may pose a challenge for non-French speakers, this linguistic choice ultimately enhances the cultural richness and charm of the collection. It immerses readers in the unique language and musicality of the habitants' speech, giving them a deeper appreciation for the richness of the French-Canadian heritage.

Additionally, the subjects explored in The Habitant and Other French-Canadian Poems are universal and timeless. From the hardships endured by the peasants to the celebration of love and faith, these poems touch upon the fundamental aspects of the human experience. Drummond's ability to evoke empathy and stir emotions is truly remarkable, as he takes readers on a profound journey through the joys and sorrows of the habitants' lives.

However, one minor criticism of the collection is that some readers might find themselves longing for a greater variety of themes. While the portrayal of the habitants' daily lives is captivating, a wider spectrum of topics could have further enriched the collection. Nevertheless, it is important to note that the depth of insight and emotional resonance in each poem compensates for this minor drawback.

Overall, The Habitant and Other French-Canadian Poems is an extraordinary collection that showcases William Henry Drummond’s undeniable skill as a poet. It offers readers a rare opportunity to delve into the world of the habitants, experiencing their struggles, joys, and sense of community firsthand. This collection is an essential read for anyone interested in Canadian literature, cultural heritage, and the beauty of poetry.

First Page:

THE HABITANT AND OTHER FRENCH CANADIAN POEMS

By William Henry Drummond, M.D.

WITH AN INTRODUCTION BY

Louis Frechette

AND WITH ILLUSTRATIONS BY

Frederick Simpson Coburn

TO MY DEAR FRIEND AND FORMER TEACHER

GEORGE MURRAY, ESQ., B.A., A.K.C., F.R.S.C.

THESE VERSES ARE DEDICATED WITH SINCERE ADMIRATION AND RESPECT

INTRODUCTION

On me demande, pour ce charmant volume, un mot de préface en français; le voici:

Quand, en 1863, je publiai mon premier recueil de poésies écrites au collège, pour la plupart, le grand poète américain Longfellow eut la flatteuse bienveillance de m'appeler The pathfinder of a new land of song .

Avec mille fois plus de raison puis je aujourd'hui passer le compliment à mon sympathique confrère et ami, l'auteur de ce livre; car, si jamais quelqu'un, chez nous, a mérité le titre de pathfinder of a new land of song , c'est assurément lui.

Non seulement il a découvert le champ, la clairière, la vallée fertile et encore inexplorée; il en a fait l'exploitation à sa manière, avec des outils et des moyens de son invention; et, fier de sa conquête, il laisse, de son épaule robuste, tomber à nos pieds le fruit de son travail, la gerbe plantureuse aux ors vierges, à l'arôme sauvage, aux savoureuses promesses, toute fraîche et toute crissante dans sa rusticité saine... Continue reading book >>




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