The Turquoise Cup, and, the Desert By: Arthur Cosslett Smith (1852-1926)
In The Turquoise Cup and the Desert, author Arthur Cosslett Smith takes readers on a captivating and thought-provoking journey through the scorching sands of the desert. Set in an arid landscape, the book beautifully weaves together elements of adventure, mystery, and self-discovery. The story follows the protagonist, whose name remains unknown, as they stumble upon an ancient artifact – the mysterious Turquoise Cup. Intrigued by its magical allure, the protagonist embarks on a quest, guided only by enigmatic symbols that appear throughout the narrative. This search for meaning becomes a metaphorical exploration of the self, forcing the protagonist to confront their own desires, strengths, and weaknesses. Smith's narrative style is poetic and lyrical, effectively capturing the harsh, yet mesmerizing essence of the desert. The barren landscapes come alive through vivid descriptions, making readers feel the oppressive heat and taste the gritty sand. This immersive approach creates a captivating backdrop that enhances the overall reading experience and allows readers to truly feel a part of the story. The characterization is another noteworthy aspect of The Turquoise Cup and the Desert. Although the protagonist lacks a clear identity, this intentional vagueness adds a layer of universality to their experiences. It allows readers to project their own fears, dreams, and aspirations onto this blank canvas, forging an intimate connection with the character. Supporting characters, although sparingly present, add depth and complexity to the plot, serving as catalysts for the protagonist's personal growth. What sets this book apart is its exploration of philosophical themes, subtly woven into the narrative. Through the protagonist's journey, Smith delves into the concepts of identity, purpose, and the search for truth. The Turquoise Cup itself becomes a symbol of these themes – a catalyst for introspection and an embodiment of the protagonist's quest for meaning. Smith elegantly raises questions about the nature of reality and the intricate interplay between individual desires and universal truths. However, some readers may find that the book's ambiguity occasionally leaves them longing for more concrete answers. Amidst the tantalizing suggestions and symbols, a few loose ends remain untied, leaving room for interpretation. While this can be viewed as intentional, it may frustrate those seeking a more definitive resolution. Overall, The Turquoise Cup and the Desert is a captivating and thought-provoking read. Arthur Cosslett Smith's evocative prose, combined with the imaginative storyline, makes for an engaging literary experience. Through its exploration of identity and the pursuit of truth, this book will resonate with readers who enjoy tales that challenge traditional narratives and invite introspection. First Page: The Turquoise Cup, and, The Desert By Arthur Cosslett Smith 1903 "KHADIJA BELIEVES IN ME" CONTENTS I The Turquoise Cup II The Desert THE TURQUOISE CUP The Cardinal Archbishop sat on his shaded balcony, his well kept hands clasped upon his breast, his feet stretched out so straight before him that the pigeon, perched on the rail of the balcony, might have seen fully six inches of scarlet silk stocking. The cardinal was a small man, but very neatly made. His hair was as white as spun glass. Perhaps he was sixty; perhaps he was seventy; perhaps he was fifty. His red biretta lay upon a near by chair. His head bore no tonsure. The razor of the barber and the scythe of Time had passed him by. There was that faint tinge upon his cheeks that comes to those who, having once had black beards, shave twice daily. His features were clearly cut. His skin would have been pallid had it not been olive. A rebellious lock of hair curved upon his forehead. He resembled the first Napoleon, before the latter became famous and fat. The pigeon's mate came floating through the blue sky that silhouetted the trees in the garden. She made a pretence of alighting upon the balcony railing, sheered off, coquetted among the treetops, came back again, retreated so far that she was merely a white speck against the blue vault, and then, true to her sex, having proved her liberty only to tire of it, with a flight so swift that the eye could scarcely follow her, she came back again and rested upon the farther end of the balcony, where she immediately began to preen herself and to affect an air of nonchalance and virtue... Continue reading book >>

The Turquoise Cup, and, the Desert By: Arthur Cosslett Smith (1852-1926)

In The Turquoise Cup and the Desert, author Arthur Cosslett Smith takes readers on a captivating and thought-provoking journey through the scorching sands of the desert. Set in an arid landscape, the book beautifully weaves together elements of adventure, mystery, and self-discovery.

The story follows the protagonist, whose name remains unknown, as they stumble upon an ancient artifact – the mysterious Turquoise Cup. Intrigued by its magical allure, the protagonist embarks on a quest, guided only by enigmatic symbols that appear throughout the narrative. This search for meaning becomes a metaphorical exploration of the self, forcing the protagonist to confront their own desires, strengths, and weaknesses.

Smith's narrative style is poetic and lyrical, effectively capturing the harsh, yet mesmerizing essence of the desert. The barren landscapes come alive through vivid descriptions, making readers feel the oppressive heat and taste the gritty sand. This immersive approach creates a captivating backdrop that enhances the overall reading experience and allows readers to truly feel a part of the story.

The characterization is another noteworthy aspect of The Turquoise Cup and the Desert. Although the protagonist lacks a clear identity, this intentional vagueness adds a layer of universality to their experiences. It allows readers to project their own fears, dreams, and aspirations onto this blank canvas, forging an intimate connection with the character. Supporting characters, although sparingly present, add depth and complexity to the plot, serving as catalysts for the protagonist's personal growth.

What sets this book apart is its exploration of philosophical themes, subtly woven into the narrative. Through the protagonist's journey, Smith delves into the concepts of identity, purpose, and the search for truth. The Turquoise Cup itself becomes a symbol of these themes – a catalyst for introspection and an embodiment of the protagonist's quest for meaning. Smith elegantly raises questions about the nature of reality and the intricate interplay between individual desires and universal truths.

However, some readers may find that the book's ambiguity occasionally leaves them longing for more concrete answers. Amidst the tantalizing suggestions and symbols, a few loose ends remain untied, leaving room for interpretation. While this can be viewed as intentional, it may frustrate those seeking a more definitive resolution.

Overall, The Turquoise Cup and the Desert is a captivating and thought-provoking read. Arthur Cosslett Smith's evocative prose, combined with the imaginative storyline, makes for an engaging literary experience. Through its exploration of identity and the pursuit of truth, this book will resonate with readers who enjoy tales that challenge traditional narratives and invite introspection.

First Page:

The Turquoise Cup, and, The Desert

Arthur Cosslett Smith

1903

"KHADIJA BELIEVES IN ME"

CONTENTS

I The Turquoise Cup

II The Desert

THE TURQUOISE CUP

The Cardinal Archbishop sat on his shaded balcony, his well kept hands clasped upon his breast, his feet stretched out so straight before him that the pigeon, perched on the rail of the balcony, might have seen fully six inches of scarlet silk stocking.

The cardinal was a small man, but very neatly made. His hair was as white as spun glass. Perhaps he was sixty; perhaps he was seventy; perhaps he was fifty. His red biretta lay upon a near by chair. His head bore no tonsure. The razor of the barber and the scythe of Time had passed him by. There was that faint tinge upon his cheeks that comes to those who, having once had black beards, shave twice daily. His features were clearly cut. His skin would have been pallid had it not been olive. A rebellious lock of hair curved upon his forehead. He resembled the first Napoleon, before the latter became famous and fat.

The pigeon's mate came floating through the blue sky that silhouetted the trees in the garden. She made a pretence of alighting upon the balcony railing, sheered off, coquetted among the treetops, came back again, retreated so far that she was merely a white speck against the blue vault, and then, true to her sex, having proved her liberty only to tire of it, with a flight so swift that the eye could scarcely follow her, she came back again and rested upon the farther end of the balcony, where she immediately began to preen herself and to affect an air of nonchalance and virtue... Continue reading book >>

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