Marching Men By: Sherwood Anderson (1876-1941)
Marching Men by Sherwood Anderson is a powerful and thought-provoking novel that delves into the intricacies of the human psyche. Set in a small Midwestern town during the early 20th century, the book offers a striking portrayal of the struggles and desires of the working class. The story follows the protagonist, Norman "Dutch" Whiteside, a young factory worker who dreams of escaping the monotony of his existence and achieving greatness. As Dutch becomes disillusioned with his mundane life, he becomes drawn to the radical ideas of Joe Wainsworth, a charismatic leader of a labor movement. Encouraged by Joe and his fiery speeches, Dutch starts to question the social order that keeps the working class oppressed. Anderson's writing style is vivid and captivating, capturing the essence of the era and the emotions of his characters. He skillfully portrays the conflicting emotions that Dutch experiences, torn between his desire for personal freedom and his sense of duty towards his family and community. The author's ability to depict the complexities of human nature is truly remarkable. Furthermore, Anderson beautifully explores the themes of identity, class struggle, and the pursuit of the American Dream. Through Dutch's journey, we witness the challenges faced by individuals striving to break free from societal norms and expectations. The novel offers a profound commentary on the impact of industrialization and capitalism on the working class, highlighting the inequalities and injustices that exist within the system. One aspect that stands out in Marching Men is the character development. Anderson masterfully crafts a diverse cast of characters, each with their own unique struggles and motivations. Whether it is Dutch's conflicted personality or the enigmatic Joe Wainsworth, the characters feel real and relatable, making their experiences all the more impactful. Though the pacing of the narrative may be slow at times, it allows for a deeper exploration of the themes and provides space for introspection. This is not a book to be rushed through but rather one to be savored, as it prompts readers to ponder on the timeless questions of individuality, societal obligations, and the pursuit of happiness. In conclusion, Marching Men is a captivating and introspective novel that offers a profound exploration of the human condition. Anderson's masterful storytelling and insightful portrayal of characters make this book a must-read for anyone interested in the complexities of human nature and the struggles of the working class. First Page: This eBook was provided by Juliet Sutherland MARCHING MEN BY SHERWOOD ANDERSON Author of "Windy Mcpherson's Son" MCMXVII TO AMERICAN WORKINGMEN BOOK I CHAPTER I Uncle Charlie Wheeler stamped on the steps before Nance McGregor's bake shop on the Main Street of the town of Coal Creek Pennsylvania and then went quickly inside. Something pleased him and as he stood before the counter in the shop he laughed and whistled softly. With a wink at the Reverend Minot Weeks who stood by the door leading to the street, he tapped with his knuckles on the showcase. "It has," he said, waving attention to the boy, who was making a mess of the effort to arrange Uncle Charlie's loaf into a neat package, "a pretty name. They call it Norman Norman McGregor." Uncle Charlie laughed heartily and again stamped upon the floor. Putting his finger to his forehead to suggest deep thought, he turned to the minister. "I am going to change all that," he said. "Norman indeed! I shall give him a name that will stick! Norman! Too soft, too soft and delicate for Coal Creek, eh? It shall be rechristened. You and I will be Adam and Eve in the garden naming things. We will call it Beaut Our Beautiful One Beaut McGregor." The Reverend Minot Weeks also laughed... Continue reading book >>

Marching Men By: Sherwood Anderson (1876-1941)

Marching Men by Sherwood Anderson is a powerful and thought-provoking novel that delves into the intricacies of the human psyche. Set in a small Midwestern town during the early 20th century, the book offers a striking portrayal of the struggles and desires of the working class.

The story follows the protagonist, Norman "Dutch" Whiteside, a young factory worker who dreams of escaping the monotony of his existence and achieving greatness. As Dutch becomes disillusioned with his mundane life, he becomes drawn to the radical ideas of Joe Wainsworth, a charismatic leader of a labor movement. Encouraged by Joe and his fiery speeches, Dutch starts to question the social order that keeps the working class oppressed.

Anderson's writing style is vivid and captivating, capturing the essence of the era and the emotions of his characters. He skillfully portrays the conflicting emotions that Dutch experiences, torn between his desire for personal freedom and his sense of duty towards his family and community. The author's ability to depict the complexities of human nature is truly remarkable.

Furthermore, Anderson beautifully explores the themes of identity, class struggle, and the pursuit of the American Dream. Through Dutch's journey, we witness the challenges faced by individuals striving to break free from societal norms and expectations. The novel offers a profound commentary on the impact of industrialization and capitalism on the working class, highlighting the inequalities and injustices that exist within the system.

One aspect that stands out in Marching Men is the character development. Anderson masterfully crafts a diverse cast of characters, each with their own unique struggles and motivations. Whether it is Dutch's conflicted personality or the enigmatic Joe Wainsworth, the characters feel real and relatable, making their experiences all the more impactful.

Though the pacing of the narrative may be slow at times, it allows for a deeper exploration of the themes and provides space for introspection. This is not a book to be rushed through but rather one to be savored, as it prompts readers to ponder on the timeless questions of individuality, societal obligations, and the pursuit of happiness.

In conclusion, Marching Men is a captivating and introspective novel that offers a profound exploration of the human condition. Anderson's masterful storytelling and insightful portrayal of characters make this book a must-read for anyone interested in the complexities of human nature and the struggles of the working class.

First Page:

This eBook was provided by Juliet Sutherland

MARCHING MEN

SHERWOOD ANDERSON Author of "Windy Mcpherson's Son"

MCMXVII

TO AMERICAN WORKINGMEN

BOOK I

CHAPTER I

Uncle Charlie Wheeler stamped on the steps before Nance McGregor's bake shop on the Main Street of the town of Coal Creek Pennsylvania and then went quickly inside. Something pleased him and as he stood before the counter in the shop he laughed and whistled softly. With a wink at the Reverend Minot Weeks who stood by the door leading to the street, he tapped with his knuckles on the showcase.

"It has," he said, waving attention to the boy, who was making a mess of the effort to arrange Uncle Charlie's loaf into a neat package, "a pretty name. They call it Norman Norman McGregor." Uncle Charlie laughed heartily and again stamped upon the floor. Putting his finger to his forehead to suggest deep thought, he turned to the minister. "I am going to change all that," he said.

"Norman indeed! I shall give him a name that will stick! Norman! Too soft, too soft and delicate for Coal Creek, eh? It shall be rechristened. You and I will be Adam and Eve in the garden naming things. We will call it Beaut Our Beautiful One Beaut McGregor."

The Reverend Minot Weeks also laughed... Continue reading book >>

This book is in genre
Literature

eBook links
Wikipedia – Sherwood Anderson
Wikipedia – Marching Men

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