Jerome, A Poor Man A Novel By: Mary Eleanor Wilkins Freeman (1852-1930)
Jerome, A Poor Man is a captivating novel written by Mary Eleanor Wilkins Freeman. Set in a small New England town during the late 19th century, the book delves into the life of Jerome, a genuine and hardworking individual who embodies the struggles faced by many poor men of his time. The narrative begins by introducing Jerome as a beacon of resilience and determination, despite his unfortunate circumstances. Freeman's masterful storytelling allows readers to sympathize with Jerome, as we witness his relentless efforts to improve his life and the lives of those around him. From working long hours in the laborious fields to taking on odd jobs around town, Jerome's tireless pursuit of a better life is both inspiring and heartrendingly realistic. What sets this book apart is the way Freeman portrays the complex dynamics within the small community. Through her keen observations and detailed character development, she reveals the stark divide between the social classes during that era. The stark contrast between the poor and the more affluent townspeople serves as a powerful backdrop for the challenges faced by individuals like Jerome. Freeman also explores the role of gender in this society by juxtaposing the experiences of Jerome with those of his wife, Rachel. As a poor man, Jerome's struggles are inherently different from Rachel's, even though they both work tirelessly to make ends meet. Freeman skillfully analyzes the gendered expectations and limitations imposed on these characters, shedding light on the intricate web of social inequality prevalent at the time. The writing style employed by Freeman is both elegant and accessible, allowing readers to immerse themselves effortlessly in the story. Her vivid descriptions of the rural landscape, coupled with her ability to delve into the internal struggles of her characters, creates a rich and evocative reading experience. One minor drawback to the novel is the occasional slow pacing. While this may deter some readers seeking constant action, it ultimately adds depth and authenticity to the narrative. The deliberate pacing gives the story time to breathe, allowing for introspective moments that emphasize the complexities of poverty and the human condition. In conclusion, Jerome, A Poor Man is a thought-provoking and emotional novel that sheds light on the challenges faced by individuals living in poverty during the late 19th century. Mary Eleanor Wilkins Freeman's insightful storytelling and well-rounded characters allow readers to intimately connect with the struggles, triumphs, and resilience of the human spirit. This book is a testament to the enduring power of literature in capturing the intricacies of societal issues and the indomitable spirit of the human soul. First Page: Jerome, A Poor Man A Novel By Mary E. Wilkins Author of "Prembroke" "Jane Field" "Madelon" "A Humble Romance" etc. Illustrated by A. I. Keller New York and London Harper & Brothers Publishers 1897 To My Father Chapter I One morning in early May, when the wind was cold and the sun hot, and Jerome about twelve years old, he was in a favorite lurking place of his, which nobody but himself knew. Three fields' width to the northward from the Edwardses' house was a great rock ledge; on the southern side of it was a famous warm hiding place for a boy on a windy spring day. There was a hollow in the rock for a space as tall as Jerome, and the ledge extended itself beyond it like a sheltering granite wing to the westward. The cold northwester blowing from over the lingering Canadian snow banks could not touch him, and he had the full benefit of the sun as it veered imperceptibly south from east. He lay there basking in it like some little animal which had crawled out from its winter nest. Before him stretched the fields, all flushed with young green. On the side of a gentle hill at the left a file of blooming peach trees looked as if they were moving down the slope to some imperious march music of the spring. In the distance a man was at work with plough and horse... Continue reading book >>

Jerome, A Poor Man A Novel By: Mary Eleanor Wilkins Freeman (1852-1930)

Jerome, A Poor Man is a captivating novel written by Mary Eleanor Wilkins Freeman. Set in a small New England town during the late 19th century, the book delves into the life of Jerome, a genuine and hardworking individual who embodies the struggles faced by many poor men of his time.

The narrative begins by introducing Jerome as a beacon of resilience and determination, despite his unfortunate circumstances. Freeman's masterful storytelling allows readers to sympathize with Jerome, as we witness his relentless efforts to improve his life and the lives of those around him. From working long hours in the laborious fields to taking on odd jobs around town, Jerome's tireless pursuit of a better life is both inspiring and heartrendingly realistic.

What sets this book apart is the way Freeman portrays the complex dynamics within the small community. Through her keen observations and detailed character development, she reveals the stark divide between the social classes during that era. The stark contrast between the poor and the more affluent townspeople serves as a powerful backdrop for the challenges faced by individuals like Jerome.

Freeman also explores the role of gender in this society by juxtaposing the experiences of Jerome with those of his wife, Rachel. As a poor man, Jerome's struggles are inherently different from Rachel's, even though they both work tirelessly to make ends meet. Freeman skillfully analyzes the gendered expectations and limitations imposed on these characters, shedding light on the intricate web of social inequality prevalent at the time.

The writing style employed by Freeman is both elegant and accessible, allowing readers to immerse themselves effortlessly in the story. Her vivid descriptions of the rural landscape, coupled with her ability to delve into the internal struggles of her characters, creates a rich and evocative reading experience.

One minor drawback to the novel is the occasional slow pacing. While this may deter some readers seeking constant action, it ultimately adds depth and authenticity to the narrative. The deliberate pacing gives the story time to breathe, allowing for introspective moments that emphasize the complexities of poverty and the human condition.

In conclusion, Jerome, A Poor Man is a thought-provoking and emotional novel that sheds light on the challenges faced by individuals living in poverty during the late 19th century. Mary Eleanor Wilkins Freeman's insightful storytelling and well-rounded characters allow readers to intimately connect with the struggles, triumphs, and resilience of the human spirit. This book is a testament to the enduring power of literature in capturing the intricacies of societal issues and the indomitable spirit of the human soul.

First Page:

Jerome, A Poor Man

A Novel

By Mary E. Wilkins

Author of "Prembroke" "Jane Field" "Madelon" "A Humble Romance" etc.

Illustrated by A. I. Keller

New York and London Harper & Brothers Publishers 1897

To My Father

Chapter I

One morning in early May, when the wind was cold and the sun hot, and Jerome about twelve years old, he was in a favorite lurking place of his, which nobody but himself knew.

Three fields' width to the northward from the Edwardses' house was a great rock ledge; on the southern side of it was a famous warm hiding place for a boy on a windy spring day. There was a hollow in the rock for a space as tall as Jerome, and the ledge extended itself beyond it like a sheltering granite wing to the westward.

The cold northwester blowing from over the lingering Canadian snow banks could not touch him, and he had the full benefit of the sun as it veered imperceptibly south from east. He lay there basking in it like some little animal which had crawled out from its winter nest. Before him stretched the fields, all flushed with young green. On the side of a gentle hill at the left a file of blooming peach trees looked as if they were moving down the slope to some imperious march music of the spring.

In the distance a man was at work with plough and horse... Continue reading book >>

Genres for this book
Fiction
Literature

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