Homo 1909 By: Francis Hopkinson Smith (1838-1915)
Homo 1909 by Francis Hopkinson Smith is a remarkable piece of literature that delves deep into the human condition during a pivotal time in history. Set in the early 20th century, the novel takes readers on a captivating journey through the eyes of its protagonist, Homer Davenport, a talented caricaturist facing the challenges and triumphs of the Gilded Age. Smith's storytelling is nothing short of exquisite, bringing to life the vibrant atmosphere of turn-of-the-century America. The author's attention to detail is commendable, painting vivid pictures with his words and effortlessly transporting readers to a different time and place. From bustling city streets to tranquil countryside landscapes, the descriptions are so vivid that one can almost smell the pollution or feel the crisp autumn breeze. What truly sets this book apart, however, is its exploration of the human psyche and societal transformations. Through Davenport's artistic pursuits and encounters with various characters, Smith skillfully dissects the complexities of human nature, exposing the vices, virtues, and contradictions that define us all. The author's deep understanding of human psychology shines through, making the characters not only relatable but also incredibly dynamic and multifaceted. Davenport's journey serves as a microcosm of the wider changes occurring in America at the time, as the nation grapples with issues of industrialization, political corruption, and the erosion of values. Smith seamlessly weaves these social critiques into the narrative, challenging readers to reflect on their own perceptions of progress and the consequences of unchecked ambition. One of the novel's most compelling aspects is its portrayal of the art world. Smith's passion for the subject is evident, as he deftly captures the transformative power of visual expression and the often tumultuous lives of artists. From the intense rivalry between creators to the struggle for recognition and the sacrifices made in the pursuit of artistic excellence, no stone is left unturned in this insightful exploration of the creative mind. However, despite its numerous strengths, Homo 1909 is not without its flaws. The pacing can be somewhat inconsistent at times, with certain sections feeling slightly drawn out compared to others. Additionally, while the prose is undeniably beautiful and evocative, it occasionally veers into unnecessary verbosity, slowing down the narrative's momentum. Nevertheless, these minor shortcomings pale in comparison to the sheer brilliance of the overall work. Francis Hopkinson Smith's Homo 1909 is an artistic triumph that immerses readers in a world of beauty, chaos, and self-discovery. A testament to the enduring human spirit, this novel is a must-read for anyone seeking a profound and thought-provoking literary experience. First Page: HOMO By F. Hopkinson Smith 1909 Dinner was over, and Mme. Constantin and her guests were seated under the lighted candles in her cosey salon. With the serving of the coffee and cigarettes, pillows had been adjusted to bare shoulders, stools moved under slippered feet, and easy lounges pushed nearer the fire. Greenough, his long body aslant, his head on the edge of a chair, his feet on the hearth rug, was blowing rings to the ceiling. Bayard, the African explorer, and the young Russian Secretary, Ivan Petrovski, had each the end of a long sofa, with pretty Mme. Petrovski and old Baron Sleyde between them, while Mme. Constantin lay nestled like a kitten among the big and little cushions of a divan. The dinner had been a merry one, with every brain at its best; this restful silence was but another luxury. Only the Baron rattled on. A duel of unusual ferocity had startled Paris, and the old fellow knew its every detail. Mme. Petrovski was listening in a languid way: "Dead, isn't he?" she asked in an indifferent tone, as being the better way to change the subject. Duels did not interest the young bride. "No," answered the Baron, flicking the ashes from his cigarette "going to get well, so Mercier, who operated, told a friend of mine to day." "Where did they fight?" she asked, as she took a fresh cigarette from her case... Continue reading book >>

Homo 1909 By: Francis Hopkinson Smith (1838-1915)

Homo 1909 by Francis Hopkinson Smith is a remarkable piece of literature that delves deep into the human condition during a pivotal time in history. Set in the early 20th century, the novel takes readers on a captivating journey through the eyes of its protagonist, Homer Davenport, a talented caricaturist facing the challenges and triumphs of the Gilded Age.

Smith's storytelling is nothing short of exquisite, bringing to life the vibrant atmosphere of turn-of-the-century America. The author's attention to detail is commendable, painting vivid pictures with his words and effortlessly transporting readers to a different time and place. From bustling city streets to tranquil countryside landscapes, the descriptions are so vivid that one can almost smell the pollution or feel the crisp autumn breeze.

What truly sets this book apart, however, is its exploration of the human psyche and societal transformations. Through Davenport's artistic pursuits and encounters with various characters, Smith skillfully dissects the complexities of human nature, exposing the vices, virtues, and contradictions that define us all. The author's deep understanding of human psychology shines through, making the characters not only relatable but also incredibly dynamic and multifaceted.

Davenport's journey serves as a microcosm of the wider changes occurring in America at the time, as the nation grapples with issues of industrialization, political corruption, and the erosion of values. Smith seamlessly weaves these social critiques into the narrative, challenging readers to reflect on their own perceptions of progress and the consequences of unchecked ambition.

One of the novel's most compelling aspects is its portrayal of the art world. Smith's passion for the subject is evident, as he deftly captures the transformative power of visual expression and the often tumultuous lives of artists. From the intense rivalry between creators to the struggle for recognition and the sacrifices made in the pursuit of artistic excellence, no stone is left unturned in this insightful exploration of the creative mind.

However, despite its numerous strengths, Homo 1909 is not without its flaws. The pacing can be somewhat inconsistent at times, with certain sections feeling slightly drawn out compared to others. Additionally, while the prose is undeniably beautiful and evocative, it occasionally veers into unnecessary verbosity, slowing down the narrative's momentum.

Nevertheless, these minor shortcomings pale in comparison to the sheer brilliance of the overall work. Francis Hopkinson Smith's Homo 1909 is an artistic triumph that immerses readers in a world of beauty, chaos, and self-discovery. A testament to the enduring human spirit, this novel is a must-read for anyone seeking a profound and thought-provoking literary experience.

First Page:

HOMO

By F. Hopkinson Smith

1909

Dinner was over, and Mme. Constantin and her guests were seated under the lighted candles in her cosey salon.

With the serving of the coffee and cigarettes, pillows had been adjusted to bare shoulders, stools moved under slippered feet, and easy lounges pushed nearer the fire. Greenough, his long body aslant, his head on the edge of a chair, his feet on the hearth rug, was blowing rings to the ceiling. Bayard, the African explorer, and the young Russian Secretary, Ivan Petrovski, had each the end of a long sofa, with pretty Mme. Petrovski and old Baron Sleyde between them, while Mme. Constantin lay nestled like a kitten among the big and little cushions of a divan.

The dinner had been a merry one, with every brain at its best; this restful silence was but another luxury. Only the Baron rattled on. A duel of unusual ferocity had startled Paris, and the old fellow knew its every detail. Mme. Petrovski was listening in a languid way:

"Dead, isn't he?" she asked in an indifferent tone, as being the better way to change the subject. Duels did not interest the young bride.

"No," answered the Baron, flicking the ashes from his cigarette "going to get well, so Mercier, who operated, told a friend of mine to day."

"Where did they fight?" she asked, as she took a fresh cigarette from her case... Continue reading book >>

Genres for this book
Fiction
Literature
Short stories

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Wikipedia – Francis Hopkinson Smith
Wikipedia – Homo 1909

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