Mercy Philbrick's Choice By: Helen Hunt Jackson (1830-1885)
In Mercy Philbrick's Choice by Helen Hunt Jackson, readers are taken on a journey through the life of the protagonist, Mercy Philbrick. Set in the post-Civil War era, the novel explores themes of love, duty, and the difficult choices individuals face. From the outset, the author establishes a captivating narrative that pulls the reader in. Through her vivid descriptions and attention to detail, Jackson transports us to the small town of Amalia, where Mercy resides. Her writing style effortlessly paints a picture of the era, immersing readers in the historical context and making the story feel both authentic and relatable. Mercy, a young woman burdened by family responsibilities, soon finds herself conflicted between pursuing her own dreams and fulfilling the expectations placed upon her. Jackson skillfully delves into the complex psychology of Mercy, portraying her internal struggles with great empathy and sensitivity. As the story unfolds, readers witness Mercy's evolution from a timid, dutiful daughter to a woman determined to assert her own desires and find her own path. One of the standout elements of this novel is the exploration of societal norms and expectations placed on women during this time period. Jackson masterfully exposes the various ways in which women's lives were controlled and limited, highlighting the stark contrast between Mercy's yearnings for independence and the suffocating reality of her circumstances. In addition to the exploration of gender roles, the novel also delves into themes of love and romance. The complicated relationships Mercy develops throughout the story add depth and intrigue to the plot. Jackson seamlessly weaves together passion, longing, and heartache, creating a web of emotions that keeps readers engrossed. While Mercy Philbrick's Choice is primarily character-driven, the author skillfully integrates historical events and societal issues into the narrative. Through Mercy's encounters with real historical figures and her involvement in social causes, the novel offers a unique perspective on the changing landscape of post-war America. However, one minor critique is that the pacing can vary at times. Certain chapters move at a slower pace, focusing on detailed descriptions and introspection, which may not appeal to all readers. Nevertheless, these moments of reflection provide important insights into Mercy's thought process and motivations, ultimately enhancing the depth of her character. Overall, Mercy Philbrick's Choice is a thought-provoking and emotionally charged novel that explores the constraints of society and the pursuit of personal happiness in a time marked by change and reconstruction. Helen Hunt Jackson's superb storytelling and compelling characters make this book a compelling read for anyone seeking a captivating blend of history, romance, and personal growth. First Page: MERCY PHILBRICK'S CHOICE. 1876 I. To one who found us on a starless night, All helpless, groping in a dangerous way, Where countless treacherous hidden pitfalls lay, And, seeing all our peril, flashed a light To show to our bewildered, blinded sight, By one swift, clear, and piercing ray, The safe, sure path, what words could reach the height Of our great thankfulness? And yet, at most, The most he saved was this poor, paltry life Of flesh, which is so little worth its cost, Which eager sows, but may not stay to reap, And so soon breathless with the strain and strife, Its work half done, exhausted, falls asleep. II. But unto him who finds men's souls astray In night that they know not is night at all, Walking, with reckless feet, where they may fall Each moment into deadlier deaths than slay The flesh, to him whose truth can rend away From such lost souls their moral night's black pall, Oh, unto him what words can hearts recall Which their deep gratitude finds fit to say? No words but these, and these to him are best: That, henceforth, like a quenchless vestal flame, His words of truth shall burn on Truth's pure shrine; His memory be truth worshipped and confessed; Our gratitude and love, the priestess line, Who serve before Truth's altar, in his name. Mercy Philbrick's Choice... Continue reading book >>

Mercy Philbrick's Choice By: Helen Hunt Jackson (1830-1885)

In Mercy Philbrick's Choice by Helen Hunt Jackson, readers are taken on a journey through the life of the protagonist, Mercy Philbrick. Set in the post-Civil War era, the novel explores themes of love, duty, and the difficult choices individuals face.

From the outset, the author establishes a captivating narrative that pulls the reader in. Through her vivid descriptions and attention to detail, Jackson transports us to the small town of Amalia, where Mercy resides. Her writing style effortlessly paints a picture of the era, immersing readers in the historical context and making the story feel both authentic and relatable.

Mercy, a young woman burdened by family responsibilities, soon finds herself conflicted between pursuing her own dreams and fulfilling the expectations placed upon her. Jackson skillfully delves into the complex psychology of Mercy, portraying her internal struggles with great empathy and sensitivity. As the story unfolds, readers witness Mercy's evolution from a timid, dutiful daughter to a woman determined to assert her own desires and find her own path.

One of the standout elements of this novel is the exploration of societal norms and expectations placed on women during this time period. Jackson masterfully exposes the various ways in which women's lives were controlled and limited, highlighting the stark contrast between Mercy's yearnings for independence and the suffocating reality of her circumstances.

In addition to the exploration of gender roles, the novel also delves into themes of love and romance. The complicated relationships Mercy develops throughout the story add depth and intrigue to the plot. Jackson seamlessly weaves together passion, longing, and heartache, creating a web of emotions that keeps readers engrossed.

While Mercy Philbrick's Choice is primarily character-driven, the author skillfully integrates historical events and societal issues into the narrative. Through Mercy's encounters with real historical figures and her involvement in social causes, the novel offers a unique perspective on the changing landscape of post-war America.

However, one minor critique is that the pacing can vary at times. Certain chapters move at a slower pace, focusing on detailed descriptions and introspection, which may not appeal to all readers. Nevertheless, these moments of reflection provide important insights into Mercy's thought process and motivations, ultimately enhancing the depth of her character.

Overall, Mercy Philbrick's Choice is a thought-provoking and emotionally charged novel that explores the constraints of society and the pursuit of personal happiness in a time marked by change and reconstruction. Helen Hunt Jackson's superb storytelling and compelling characters make this book a compelling read for anyone seeking a captivating blend of history, romance, and personal growth.

First Page:

MERCY PHILBRICK'S CHOICE.

1876

To one who found us on a starless night, All helpless, groping in a dangerous way, Where countless treacherous hidden pitfalls lay, And, seeing all our peril, flashed a light To show to our bewildered, blinded sight, By one swift, clear, and piercing ray, The safe, sure path, what words could reach the height Of our great thankfulness? And yet, at most, The most he saved was this poor, paltry life Of flesh, which is so little worth its cost, Which eager sows, but may not stay to reap, And so soon breathless with the strain and strife, Its work half done, exhausted, falls asleep.

II.

But unto him who finds men's souls astray In night that they know not is night at all, Walking, with reckless feet, where they may fall Each moment into deadlier deaths than slay The flesh, to him whose truth can rend away From such lost souls their moral night's black pall, Oh, unto him what words can hearts recall Which their deep gratitude finds fit to say? No words but these, and these to him are best: That, henceforth, like a quenchless vestal flame, His words of truth shall burn on Truth's pure shrine; His memory be truth worshipped and confessed; Our gratitude and love, the priestess line, Who serve before Truth's altar, in his name.

Mercy Philbrick's Choice... Continue reading book >>

eBook links
Wikipedia – Helen Hunt Jackson
Wikipedia – Mercy Philbrick's Choice

eBook Downloads
ePUB eBook • iBooks for iPhone and iPad • Nook • Sony Reader	Kindle eBook • Mobi file format for Kindle
Read eBook • Load eBook in browser	Text File eBook • Computers • Windows • Mac