The Young Seigneur Or, Nation-Making By: W. D. (William Douw) Lighthall (1857-1954)
In "The Young Seigneur Or, Nation-Making" by W. D. (William Douw) Lighthall, readers are transported to the vibrant setting of 19th-century Canada. The novel offers a gripping historical perspective and an exploration of identity and nation-building. Lighthall's storytelling prowess shines throughout the narrative, capturing the reader's attention from the very first pages. The protagonist, Arthur de Bury, is a fascinating character whose journey serves as a microcosm of the struggles and aspirations of the Canadian people during a critical period of their history. From his early years in France to his eventual settlement in Canada, Arthur's experiences paint a vivid picture of the challenges faced by settlers striving for a better future. One of the novel's strengths lies in its portrayal of the intricate relationship between the French and English populations in Canada and their shared endeavor to forge a national identity. Lighthall expertly weaves together historical events with personal anecdotes, offering a nuanced exploration of cultural clashes, political tensions, and the drive for unity among diverse communities. This theme resonates beyond the pages, highlighting the importance of multiculturalism and cooperation in the development of any nation. Additionally, Lighthall's vivid descriptions transport readers to the lush landscapes and bustling streets of 19th-century Quebec. Whether it is the blossoming romance between Arthur and his love interest, Christine, or the vivid depictions of Canada's natural beauty, the author's prose paints a rich and engaging picture. Through his detailed writing, readers are immersed in the sights, sounds, and emotions of this vibrant period in Canadian history. However, it is worth noting that at times the pacing of the novel may feel a bit slow, as the author provides extensive historical context. While this may be appreciated by history enthusiasts, some readers seeking a faster-paced narrative may find themselves yearning for more action or plot development. Nevertheless, the strength of Lighthall's writing and the depth of his research compensate for any lulls in the storyline. "The Young Seigneur Or, Nation-Making" is a compelling historical novel that offers an insightful exploration of Canada's formative years. With well-drawn characters, evocative descriptions, and a keen understanding of the cultural complexities at play, W. D. Lighthall succeeds in crafting a thought-provoking tale that will captivate readers interested in Canadian history and beyond. This novel serves as a testament to the resilience and determination of those who helped shape the nation we know today. First Page: THE YOUNG SEIGNEUR; OR, NATION MAKING. BY WILFRID CHÂTEAUCLAIR [hand written: i.e. William Douw Lighthall] MONTREAL: WM. DRYSDALE & CO., PUBLISHERS, 232 ST. JAMES STREET, 1888. Entered according to Act of Parliament of Canada, in the year one thousand eight hundred and eighty eight, by WM. DRYSDALE & CO. in the Office of the Minister of Agriculture. PREFACE. The chief aim of this book is the perhaps too bold one to map out a future for the Canadian nation , which has been hitherto drifting without any plan. A lesser purpose of it is to make some of the atmosphere of French Canada understood by those who speak English. The writer hopes to have done some service to these brothers of ours in using as his hero one of those lofty characters which their circle has produced more than once. The book is not a political work. It must by no means be taken for a Grit diatribe. The writer is an old fashioned Tory and an old fashioned Liberal: all his parties are dead, and he is at present in a universal Opposition. The party names he uses are, therefore, in any present day application, simply typical, and the work is not a political one in any current sense. There are those who will say his characters are untrue and impossible. To these he would answer: Everything here, apart from a few little inaccuracies, is studied from the life, and you can find item, man and date for the essential particulars... Continue reading book >>

The Young Seigneur Or, Nation-Making By: W. D. (William Douw) Lighthall (1857-1954)

In "The Young Seigneur Or, Nation-Making" by W. D. (William Douw) Lighthall, readers are transported to the vibrant setting of 19th-century Canada. The novel offers a gripping historical perspective and an exploration of identity and nation-building. Lighthall's storytelling prowess shines throughout the narrative, capturing the reader's attention from the very first pages. The protagonist, Arthur de Bury, is a fascinating character whose journey serves as a microcosm of the struggles and aspirations of the Canadian people during a critical period of their history. From his early years in France to his eventual settlement in Canada, Arthur's experiences paint a vivid picture of the challenges faced by settlers striving for a better future.

One of the novel's strengths lies in its portrayal of the intricate relationship between the French and English populations in Canada and their shared endeavor to forge a national identity. Lighthall expertly weaves together historical events with personal anecdotes, offering a nuanced exploration of cultural clashes, political tensions, and the drive for unity among diverse communities. This theme resonates beyond the pages, highlighting the importance of multiculturalism and cooperation in the development of any nation.

Additionally, Lighthall's vivid descriptions transport readers to the lush landscapes and bustling streets of 19th-century Quebec. Whether it is the blossoming romance between Arthur and his love interest, Christine, or the vivid depictions of Canada's natural beauty, the author's prose paints a rich and engaging picture. Through his detailed writing, readers are immersed in the sights, sounds, and emotions of this vibrant period in Canadian history.

However, it is worth noting that at times the pacing of the novel may feel a bit slow, as the author provides extensive historical context. While this may be appreciated by history enthusiasts, some readers seeking a faster-paced narrative may find themselves yearning for more action or plot development. Nevertheless, the strength of Lighthall's writing and the depth of his research compensate for any lulls in the storyline.

"The Young Seigneur Or, Nation-Making" is a compelling historical novel that offers an insightful exploration of Canada's formative years. With well-drawn characters, evocative descriptions, and a keen understanding of the cultural complexities at play, W. D. Lighthall succeeds in crafting a thought-provoking tale that will captivate readers interested in Canadian history and beyond. This novel serves as a testament to the resilience and determination of those who helped shape the nation we know today.

First Page:

THE YOUNG SEIGNEUR;

OR,

NATION MAKING.

WILFRID CHÂTEAUCLAIR [hand written: i.e. William Douw Lighthall]

MONTREAL:

WM. DRYSDALE & CO., PUBLISHERS, 232 ST. JAMES STREET, 1888.

Entered according to Act of Parliament of Canada, in the year one thousand eight hundred and eighty eight, by WM. DRYSDALE & CO. in the Office of the Minister of Agriculture.

PREFACE.

The chief aim of this book is the perhaps too bold one to map out a future for the Canadian nation , which has been hitherto drifting without any plan.

A lesser purpose of it is to make some of the atmosphere of French Canada understood by those who speak English. The writer hopes to have done some service to these brothers of ours in using as his hero one of those lofty characters which their circle has produced more than once.

The book is not a political work. It must by no means be taken for a Grit diatribe. The writer is an old fashioned Tory and an old fashioned Liberal: all his parties are dead, and he is at present in a universal Opposition. The party names he uses are, therefore, in any present day application, simply typical, and the work is not a political one in any current sense.

There are those who will say his characters are untrue and impossible. To these he would answer: Everything here, apart from a few little inaccuracies, is studied from the life, and you can find item, man and date for the essential particulars... Continue reading book >>

eBook links
Wikipedia – W. D. (William Douw) Lighthall
Wikipedia – The Young Seigneur Or, Nation-Making

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