Peter: a novel of which he is not the hero By: Francis Hopkinson Smith (1838-1915)
Peter: A Novel of Which He is Not the Hero by Francis Hopkinson Smith is a captivating and thought-provoking piece of literature that delves into the complex world of human nature, ambition, and the pursuit of happiness. Set in the late 19th century, the story follows the life of Peter Stirling, a somewhat ordinary young man who aspires to remarkable achievements. What sets this novel apart is its unconventional approach, as hinted by the enigmatic title. Peter, the central character, is not portrayed as the traditional hero, but rather as an ambitious individual driven by his insatiable desire for success. Francis Hopkinson Smith beautifully explores the dichotomy between ambition and morality, showcasing the internal struggles faced by Peter as he navigates his way through the labyrinth of society's expectations. Smith's prose is rich and evocative, painting vivid pictures of the world Peter inhabits. The author's attention to detail immerses the reader in the crowded streets of New York, the opulent mansions of the elite, and the bustling political landscape of the time. The vivid descriptions effectively transport readers into the heart of the narrative, creating a strong sense of time and place. Furthermore, Smith's mastery lies in his ability to develop complex and believable characters. Peter is portrayed as a flawed and imperfect protagonist, struggling to find his place in a world that simultaneously entices and corrupts him. The author explores the universal theme of the human condition, examining the impact of external influences on one's character and choices. In doing so, Smith prompts readers to question their own beliefs, motivations, and the intricacies of their own journeys. While the pace may seem slow at times, it reflects the slow-burning nature of Peter's ambitions and his gradual realization of their consequences. Smith introduces a variety of relationships, both personal and professional, which highlight the intricate web of connections that shape our lives. Through these relationships, Peter undergoes a profound transformation, ultimately leading to a powerful climax that confronts the reader with the consequences of ambition unchecked. In Peter: A Novel of Which He is Not the Hero, Smith crafts a tale that defies literary conventions. He deftly delves into the human psyche, challenging readers to reevaluate their notions of the hero's journey. Honest, introspective, and filled with compelling characters, this book is a must-read for those who appreciate literary works that explore the complexity of human nature. First Page: PETER A Novel of Which He is Not the Hero By F. Hopkinson Smith CHAPTER I Peter was still poring over his ledger one dark afternoon in December, his bald head glistening like a huge ostrich egg under the flare of the overhead gas jets, when Patrick, the night watchman, catching sight of my face peering through the outer grating, opened the door of the Bank. The sight so late in the day was an unusual one, for in all the years that I have called at the Bank ten, now no, eleven since we first knew each other Peter had seldom failed to be ready for our walk uptown when the old moon faced clock high up on the wall above the stove pointed at four. "I thought there was something up!" I cried. "What is it, Peter balance wrong?" He did not answer, only waved his hand in reply, his bushy gray eyebrows moving slowly, like two shutters that opened and closed, as he scanned the lines of figures up and down, his long pen gripped tight between his thin, straight lips, as a dog carries a bone. I never interrupt him when his brain is nosing about like this; it is better to keep still and let him ferret it out. So I sat down outside the curved rail with its wooden slats backed by faded green curtains, close to the big stove screened off at the end of the long room, fixed one eye on the moon face and the other on the ostrich egg, and waited... Continue reading book >>

Peter: a novel of which he is not the hero By: Francis Hopkinson Smith (1838-1915)

Peter: A Novel of Which He is Not the Hero by Francis Hopkinson Smith is a captivating and thought-provoking piece of literature that delves into the complex world of human nature, ambition, and the pursuit of happiness. Set in the late 19th century, the story follows the life of Peter Stirling, a somewhat ordinary young man who aspires to remarkable achievements.

What sets this novel apart is its unconventional approach, as hinted by the enigmatic title. Peter, the central character, is not portrayed as the traditional hero, but rather as an ambitious individual driven by his insatiable desire for success. Francis Hopkinson Smith beautifully explores the dichotomy between ambition and morality, showcasing the internal struggles faced by Peter as he navigates his way through the labyrinth of society's expectations.

Smith's prose is rich and evocative, painting vivid pictures of the world Peter inhabits. The author's attention to detail immerses the reader in the crowded streets of New York, the opulent mansions of the elite, and the bustling political landscape of the time. The vivid descriptions effectively transport readers into the heart of the narrative, creating a strong sense of time and place.

Furthermore, Smith's mastery lies in his ability to develop complex and believable characters. Peter is portrayed as a flawed and imperfect protagonist, struggling to find his place in a world that simultaneously entices and corrupts him. The author explores the universal theme of the human condition, examining the impact of external influences on one's character and choices. In doing so, Smith prompts readers to question their own beliefs, motivations, and the intricacies of their own journeys.

While the pace may seem slow at times, it reflects the slow-burning nature of Peter's ambitions and his gradual realization of their consequences. Smith introduces a variety of relationships, both personal and professional, which highlight the intricate web of connections that shape our lives. Through these relationships, Peter undergoes a profound transformation, ultimately leading to a powerful climax that confronts the reader with the consequences of ambition unchecked.

In Peter: A Novel of Which He is Not the Hero, Smith crafts a tale that defies literary conventions. He deftly delves into the human psyche, challenging readers to reevaluate their notions of the hero's journey. Honest, introspective, and filled with compelling characters, this book is a must-read for those who appreciate literary works that explore the complexity of human nature.

First Page:

PETER

A Novel of Which He is Not the Hero

By F. Hopkinson Smith

CHAPTER I

Peter was still poring over his ledger one dark afternoon in December, his bald head glistening like a huge ostrich egg under the flare of the overhead gas jets, when Patrick, the night watchman, catching sight of my face peering through the outer grating, opened the door of the Bank.

The sight so late in the day was an unusual one, for in all the years that I have called at the Bank ten, now no, eleven since we first knew each other Peter had seldom failed to be ready for our walk uptown when the old moon faced clock high up on the wall above the stove pointed at four.

"I thought there was something up!" I cried. "What is it, Peter balance wrong?"

He did not answer, only waved his hand in reply, his bushy gray eyebrows moving slowly, like two shutters that opened and closed, as he scanned the lines of figures up and down, his long pen gripped tight between his thin, straight lips, as a dog carries a bone.

I never interrupt him when his brain is nosing about like this; it is better to keep still and let him ferret it out. So I sat down outside the curved rail with its wooden slats backed by faded green curtains, close to the big stove screened off at the end of the long room, fixed one eye on the moon face and the other on the ostrich egg, and waited... Continue reading book >>

Genres for this book
Fiction
Literature

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