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The Bridal March; One Day   By: (1832-1910)

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One Day by Bjørnstjerne Bjørnson is a thought-provoking novel delving into the complexities of love, societal expectations, and personal growth. Set in the late 19th century in a small Norwegian village, the story follows the intertwined lives of two main characters, Baldur Solness and Elisabeth, as they navigate the ups and downs of their relationship.

The narrative unfolds over the course of a single day, a significant day for both Baldur and Elisabeth as they prepare for their long-awaited wedding. Through this compressed timeframe, Bjørnson masterfully captures the spectrum of emotions that encompass the anticipation of marriage. However, as the day progresses, doubts and tensions begin to surface, threatening to unravel the carefully constructed façade of their union.

One of the strengths of Bjørnson's writing lies in his ability to portray the inner turmoil and conflicting desires of his characters with authenticity. Baldur, a successful architect, finds himself torn between the expectations placed upon him by society and the stifling constraints of his role as a husband-to-be. Meanwhile, Elisabeth grapples with her own insecurities and the growing realization that her dreams may be compromised in her new life as a married woman. This exploration of the complexities of marriage and the sacrifices it often entails is both timeless and relatable, making the characters and their struggles compelling to readers of any era.

In addition to its psychological depth, One Day also shines a light on the societal norms and expectations that shaped the lives of individuals during this era. Bjørnson, a prominent figure in the realist movement, uses his storytelling prowess to critique the societal constraints imposed on men and women alike. Through vivid descriptions of the rural Norwegian landscape and the interactions between the characters, he paints a vivid picture of a society grappling with tradition, religion, and the pull between individual desires and collective norms.

The prose in One Day is poetic yet accessible, with Bjørnson's language flowing seamlessly from one scene to another. The vivid descriptions and well-developed characters combine to create an immersive reading experience. However, occasionally the narrative pacing can be slow, with certain sections dragging on, detracting from the overall momentum of the story.

Overall, One Day by Bjørnstjerne Bjørnson is a captivating exploration of love, marriage, and societal expectations. Its nuanced characters and vivid setting make for an engaging read that prompts readers to reflect on the timeless questions of personal fulfillment and the concessions we make in the pursuit of happiness. While the pacing could be improved in certain sections, the book offers a powerful glimpse into the complexities of human relationships and the cultural milieu of late 19th-century Norway.

First Page:

[Transcriber's note: Front matter listing the novels of BJÖRNSTJERNE BJÖRNSON moved to end of book]

THE BRIDAL MARCH

&

ONE DAY

BY

BJÖRNSTJERNE BJÖRNSON

( Translated from the Norwegian )

LONDON WILLIAM HEINEMANN 1896

BIBLIOGRAPHICAL NOTE

[The Bridal March (Brude Slaatten) was written in Christiania in 1872. It was originally published in the second volume of the first popular edition of Björnson's collected tales, issued in Copenhagen in that year. In November 1873, a small edition was published in separate form, and this was followed by an illustrated issue, of which a second edition appeared in 1877. The Bridal March was originally composed as the text to four designs by the Norwegian painter, Tidemand. It was dedicated to Hans Christian Andersen.

One Day (En Dag) was originally issued in the Norwegian Magazine "Nyt Tidsscrift," late in 1893; and was republished in a volume of short stories during the following year.

E. G. ]

THE BRIDAL MARCH

There lived last century, in one of the high lying inland valleys of Norway, a fiddler, who has become in some degree a legendary personage... Continue reading book >>




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