Absalom's Hair By: Bjørnstjerne Bjørnson (1832-1910)
Absalom's Hair by Bjørnstjerne Bjørnson is a thought-provoking and deeply introspective novel that delves into the complexities of family, faith, and societal expectations. Set against the backdrop of a small Norwegian village in the late 19th century, the story follows the intertwined lives of two brothers, Absalom and Ezra. The novel's strength lies in its beautifully developed characters, each with their own unique struggles and desires. Absalom, the protagonist, is an enigmatic figure whose rebellious nature and unconventional views challenge the traditional norms of his community. His unkempt hair becomes a symbol of his nonconformity, and the source of both scorn and admiration from those around him. Bjornson's exploration of Absalom's character is masterful, as he delves into the complex motives behind his actions and the internal conflicts he faces. We witness the clash between Absalom's desire for personal freedom and the societal pressure to conform, leading to a series of events that ultimately impact not only his own life but also those of his loved ones. The themes of identity and faith are also prominently woven into the narrative. Absalom's rejection of organized religion and his pursuit of his own spiritual path highlights the tension between personal beliefs and societal expectations. Through Absalom's journey, the author raises profound questions about the nature of faith, challenging readers to reflect on their own beliefs and the role religion plays in their lives. Furthermore, the vivid descriptions of the Norwegian landscape serve as a backdrop to the characters' psychological and emotional landscapes. Bjornson's lyrical prose paints a vivid picture of the village, from the serene beauty of the fjords to the harsh realities of rural life, adding depth and authenticity to the story. However, the novel's pacing occasionally falters, with some sections feeling sluggish and drawn out. Additionally, the sheer number of characters introduced and their intricate relationships can be overwhelming at times, making it challenging to fully invest in each individual's story. Nevertheless, Absalom's Hair succeeds in capturing the essence of human nature and the timeless struggle between societal conformity and personal freedom. Through Absalom's journey, readers are left with a powerful message that encourages them to question the constraints of society, embrace their own unique identity, and find the courage to follow their own path, regardless of the consequences. In conclusion, Absalom's Hair is a captivating novel that offers a rich exploration of complex themes and vividly drawn characters. Bjørnstjerne Bjørnson's masterful storytelling and thought-provoking insights make this book a compelling read for anyone interested in examining the dynamics of family, faith, and societal expectations. First Page: Nicole Apostola, Charles Franks and the Online Distributed Proofreading Team. ABSALOM'S HAIR BJORNSTJERNE BJORNSON CHAPTER 1 Harald Kaas was sixty. He had given up his free, uncriticised bachelor life; his yacht was no longer seen off the coast in summer; his tours to England and the south had ceased; nay, he was rarely to be found even at his club in Christiania. His gigantic figure was never seen in the doorways; he was failing. Bandy legged he had always been, but this defect had increased; his herculean back was rounded, and he stooped a little. His forehead, always of the broadest no one else's hat would fit him was now one of the highest, that is to say, he had lost all his hair, except a ragged lock over each ear and a thin fringe behind. He was beginning also to lose his teeth, which were strong though small, and blackened by tobacco; and now, instead of "deuce take it" he said "deush take it." He had always held his hands half closed as though grasping something; now they had stiffened so that he could never open them fully. The little finger of his left hand had been bitten off "in gratitude" by an adversary whom he had knocked down: according to Harald's version of the story, he had compelled the fellow to swallow the piece on the spot. He was fond of caressing the stump, and it often served as an introduction to the history of his exploits, which became greater and greater as he grew older and quieter... Continue reading book >>

Absalom's Hair By: Bjørnstjerne Bjørnson (1832-1910)

Absalom's Hair by Bjørnstjerne Bjørnson is a thought-provoking and deeply introspective novel that delves into the complexities of family, faith, and societal expectations. Set against the backdrop of a small Norwegian village in the late 19th century, the story follows the intertwined lives of two brothers, Absalom and Ezra.

The novel's strength lies in its beautifully developed characters, each with their own unique struggles and desires. Absalom, the protagonist, is an enigmatic figure whose rebellious nature and unconventional views challenge the traditional norms of his community. His unkempt hair becomes a symbol of his nonconformity, and the source of both scorn and admiration from those around him.

Bjornson's exploration of Absalom's character is masterful, as he delves into the complex motives behind his actions and the internal conflicts he faces. We witness the clash between Absalom's desire for personal freedom and the societal pressure to conform, leading to a series of events that ultimately impact not only his own life but also those of his loved ones.

The themes of identity and faith are also prominently woven into the narrative. Absalom's rejection of organized religion and his pursuit of his own spiritual path highlights the tension between personal beliefs and societal expectations. Through Absalom's journey, the author raises profound questions about the nature of faith, challenging readers to reflect on their own beliefs and the role religion plays in their lives.

Furthermore, the vivid descriptions of the Norwegian landscape serve as a backdrop to the characters' psychological and emotional landscapes. Bjornson's lyrical prose paints a vivid picture of the village, from the serene beauty of the fjords to the harsh realities of rural life, adding depth and authenticity to the story.

However, the novel's pacing occasionally falters, with some sections feeling sluggish and drawn out. Additionally, the sheer number of characters introduced and their intricate relationships can be overwhelming at times, making it challenging to fully invest in each individual's story.

Nevertheless, Absalom's Hair succeeds in capturing the essence of human nature and the timeless struggle between societal conformity and personal freedom. Through Absalom's journey, readers are left with a powerful message that encourages them to question the constraints of society, embrace their own unique identity, and find the courage to follow their own path, regardless of the consequences.

In conclusion, Absalom's Hair is a captivating novel that offers a rich exploration of complex themes and vividly drawn characters. Bjørnstjerne Bjørnson's masterful storytelling and thought-provoking insights make this book a compelling read for anyone interested in examining the dynamics of family, faith, and societal expectations.

First Page:

Nicole Apostola, Charles Franks and the Online Distributed Proofreading Team.

ABSALOM'S HAIR

BJORNSTJERNE BJORNSON

CHAPTER 1

Harald Kaas was sixty.

He had given up his free, uncriticised bachelor life; his yacht was no longer seen off the coast in summer; his tours to England and the south had ceased; nay, he was rarely to be found even at his club in Christiania. His gigantic figure was never seen in the doorways; he was failing.

Bandy legged he had always been, but this defect had increased; his herculean back was rounded, and he stooped a little. His forehead, always of the broadest no one else's hat would fit him was now one of the highest, that is to say, he had lost all his hair, except a ragged lock over each ear and a thin fringe behind. He was beginning also to lose his teeth, which were strong though small, and blackened by tobacco; and now, instead of "deuce take it" he said "deush take it."

He had always held his hands half closed as though grasping something; now they had stiffened so that he could never open them fully. The little finger of his left hand had been bitten off "in gratitude" by an adversary whom he had knocked down: according to Harald's version of the story, he had compelled the fellow to swallow the piece on the spot.

He was fond of caressing the stump, and it often served as an introduction to the history of his exploits, which became greater and greater as he grew older and quieter... Continue reading book >>

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Literature

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