Author
Elizabeth Bisland
1861-1929
Elizabeth Bisland (1861-1929) is a public-domain author available on Rivro. Read free books, explore subjects, and discover related classics.
WikipediaSubjects
Books by Elizabeth Bisland
The Life and Letters of Lafcadio Hearn, Volume 2
"The Life and Letters of Lafcadio Hearn, Volume 2" by Elizabeth Bisland is a collection of correspondence written in the early 20th century. This volume delves into the experiences and reflections of Lafcadio Hearn, a notable writer and translator renowned for his writings on Japan. The letters provide insight into his life, thoughts on Japanese culture, and his deep admiration for the country and its people. At the start of the volume, the reader is introduced to Hearn's expressive and passionate writing style through various letters addressed to friends and colleagues. He shares his feelings about Japan's beauty and cultural nuances, discussing the spirituality of its nature and simplicity of its people. Hearn confides his struggles with finding employment, his dedication to studying Buddhism, and his deep desire to immerse himself in Japanese life through teaching and cultural exploration. Together, these letters reveal both his personal challenges and his heartfelt connection to Japan, setting the tone for a rich exploration of his literary journey.
The Life and Letters of Lafcadio Hearn, Volume 1
"The Life and Letters of Lafcadio Hearn, Volume 1" by Elizabeth Bisland is a biographical work written in the early 20th century. This volume delves into the life of the renowned writer and cultural critic Lafcadio Hearn, emphasizing his complex background and early experiences that shaped his literary career. The book not only provides a detailed narrative of Hearn's life but also includes many of his letters, which serve to vividly illustrate his character and the emotional depth of his artistic exploration. The opening of this volume introduces Lafcadio Hearn's early years, detailing his birth in the Greek Ionian Islands and the tumultuous events that marked his childhood, including his parents’ dramatic romance and subsequent separation. Bisland explores Hearn's formative experiences, portraying him as a sensitive and introspective child who was heavily influenced by his dual heritage and early losses. Hearn's haunting reflections on his past, as revealed through his letters and autobiographical fragments, set the stage for understanding the creative genius he developed later in life, characterized by a deep longing for beauty and connection amidst the shadows of his upbringing.
Seekers in Sicily: Being a Quest for Persephone by Jane and Peripatetica
"Seekers in Sicily: Being a Quest for Persephone" by Jane and Peripatetica is a travel narrative written in the early 20th century. This book recounts the journey of two American women, Jane and Peripatetica, as they venture to Sicily in search of the mythological figure Persephone, exploring themes of beauty, history, and the ancient landscapes of the Mediterranean. Their quest is framed by a whimsical blend of myth and the personal adventures that arise during their travels. At the start of the narrative, the authors introduce their main characters while drawing on the myth of Persephone and Demeter, setting the tone for a journey steeped in both personal and mythological significance. Jane and Peripatetica's desire to assist Demeter in finding her daughter leads them to embark on a trip to Sicily, despite facing travel mishaps reminiscent of their character struggles. As they navigate the hardships of their voyage from Naples to Taormina, their observations of culture and geography reveal the enchanting yet challenging realities of their destination, highlighting both the beauty of Sicily and the comical misfortunes that accompany their quest.
The Secret Life: Being the Book of a Heretic
"The Secret Life: Being the Book of a Heretic" by Elizabeth Bisland is a collection of personal essays written in the early 20th century. The work delves into profound themes of individuality, societal norms, and the hidden thoughts and experiences that individuals often keep to themselves. The opening chapters introduce intriguing reflections led by a somewhat cynical narrator, touching on her secret life and societal conventions. The beginning of the book reveals the narrator's struggle with her hidden thoughts and desires, leading her to start a diary where she can explore her innermost views without fear of judgment. This moment sets the tone for the explorations that follow, as she reflects on the contradictions of life, human behavior, and societal expectations. Through anecdotes and philosophical musings, she provides a meditation on the nature of truth and the facades that people present in everyday life, suggesting a deep yearning for authenticity amidst societal pretense. This initial exploration offers a sophisticated glimpse into the narrator's psyche, hinting at the broader themes that Bisland will explore throughout the collection.