Life on The Mississippi by Mark Twain - 1883 - First Edition
Own a piece of American history with this first edition of Mark Twain's “Life on the Mississippi,” his account of his time on a riverboat. This book has damage to the upper portion of the spine, and the binding is loose. There are also some markings and signatures from previous owners present. There are a few loose pages at the beginning of the book, but all are present and none are missing. Some slight water damage and staining is present to the bottom of some pages, but they are otherwise quite clean.
The book is structured as a blend of memoir, travelogue, and social commentary, highlighting the vibrant culture and diverse communities along the river.
The narrative begins with Twain's youth in Hannibal, Missouri, where he first develops a fascination for the river. He recounts his apprenticeship as a pilot, during which he learns the intricacies of navigation and the river's unpredictable nature. Twain’s meticulous attention to detail captures the geography, flora, and fauna that define the Mississippi.
Throughout the book, Twain introduces various characters, including passengers, fellow pilots, and local inhabitants, providing a rich tapestry of life along the river. His sharp wit and keen observations reveal the socio-economic contrasts prevalent in the region, while also addressing the themes of race, class, and the impact of modernization.
As Twain transitions from pilot to writer, the work reflects on nostalgia for the past while grappling with the emerging changes brought about by industrialization and the war. Ultimately, "Life on the Mississippi" is an exploration of the river itself—serving as a metaphor for change, adventure, and the complexities of American life during a transformative era.
Overall, this book is a handsome example of a collectible Twain first edition.
Own a piece of American history with this first edition of Mark Twain's “Life on the Mississippi,” his account of his time on a riverboat. This book has damage to the upper portion of the spine, and the binding is loose. There are also some markings and signatures from previous owners present. There are a few loose pages at the beginning of the book, but all are present and none are missing. Some slight water damage and staining is present to the bottom of some pages, but they are otherwise quite clean.
The book is structured as a blend of memoir, travelogue, and social commentary, highlighting the vibrant culture and diverse communities along the river.
The narrative begins with Twain's youth in Hannibal, Missouri, where he first develops a fascination for the river. He recounts his apprenticeship as a pilot, during which he learns the intricacies of navigation and the river's unpredictable nature. Twain’s meticulous attention to detail captures the geography, flora, and fauna that define the Mississippi.
Throughout the book, Twain introduces various characters, including passengers, fellow pilots, and local inhabitants, providing a rich tapestry of life along the river. His sharp wit and keen observations reveal the socio-economic contrasts prevalent in the region, while also addressing the themes of race, class, and the impact of modernization.
As Twain transitions from pilot to writer, the work reflects on nostalgia for the past while grappling with the emerging changes brought about by industrialization and the war. Ultimately, "Life on the Mississippi" is an exploration of the river itself—serving as a metaphor for change, adventure, and the complexities of American life during a transformative era.
Overall, this book is a handsome example of a collectible Twain first edition.
Own a piece of American history with this first edition of Mark Twain's “Life on the Mississippi,” his account of his time on a riverboat. This book has damage to the upper portion of the spine, and the binding is loose. There are also some markings and signatures from previous owners present. There are a few loose pages at the beginning of the book, but all are present and none are missing. Some slight water damage and staining is present to the bottom of some pages, but they are otherwise quite clean.
The book is structured as a blend of memoir, travelogue, and social commentary, highlighting the vibrant culture and diverse communities along the river.
The narrative begins with Twain's youth in Hannibal, Missouri, where he first develops a fascination for the river. He recounts his apprenticeship as a pilot, during which he learns the intricacies of navigation and the river's unpredictable nature. Twain’s meticulous attention to detail captures the geography, flora, and fauna that define the Mississippi.
Throughout the book, Twain introduces various characters, including passengers, fellow pilots, and local inhabitants, providing a rich tapestry of life along the river. His sharp wit and keen observations reveal the socio-economic contrasts prevalent in the region, while also addressing the themes of race, class, and the impact of modernization.
As Twain transitions from pilot to writer, the work reflects on nostalgia for the past while grappling with the emerging changes brought about by industrialization and the war. Ultimately, "Life on the Mississippi" is an exploration of the river itself—serving as a metaphor for change, adventure, and the complexities of American life during a transformative era.
Overall, this book is a handsome example of a collectible Twain first edition.