Author
John Dos Passos
1896-1970
John Dos Passos (1896-1970) is a public-domain author available on Rivro. Read free books, explore subjects, and discover related classics.
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Books by John Dos Passos
Three Soldiers
"Three Soldiers" by John Dos Passos is a novel written in the early 20th century, reflecting the experiences of soldiers during World War I. The narrative is likely to center around the lives of three main characters, exploring their thoughts and emotions as they navigate the harsh realities of military life, the absurdity of war, and the impact these experiences have on their identities. The opening of the novel introduces us to a group of soldiers standing at attention on a parade ground, setting the stage for military life. The characters begin to engage in conversations about their backgrounds and aspirations, conveying a sense of camaraderie while also hinting at their personal struggles and dreams. One soldier, Fuselli, reflects on his longing for home and the relationships he left behind, particularly with his fiancée, Mabe. As the soldiers move through their daily routines, the narrative hints at the monotony and emotional toll of army life, laying the foundation for the exploration of their individual journeys throughout the war. The vivid imagery and dialogue provide an authentic glimpse into the lives of these men, establishing a poignant atmosphere that carries throughout the text.
Manhattan Transfer
"Manhattan Transfer" by John Dos Passos is a novel published in 1925. It captures the transformation of New York City from the Gilded Age to the Jazz Age through overlapping stories of diverse characters struggling to survive in the metropolis. Using experimental techniques inspired by Joyce and Eliot, Dos Passos creates a fragmented portrait of urban life—a restless, merciless city teeming with strivers, winners, and losers. Their intersecting tales reveal the consumerism and social indifference of modern Manhattan.
Rosinante to the Road Again
"Rosinante to the Road Again" by John Dos Passos is a novel written in the early 20th century. The narrative follows Telemachus, a character reflecting on his existence as he wanders through various locations in Spain, accompanied by Lyaeus, a companion. The story centers on themes of identity, memory, and the search for meaning in life amid the vibrant backdrop of Spanish culture and landscapes. At the start of the novel, Telemachus and Lyaeus are in a café in Madrid, where they ponder their existence and the search for a deeper significance in their lives. As the story unfolds, they discuss poetry, the nature of Spain, and the poignant moments they have experienced, particularly with a dancer named Pastora. The opening explores the tension between vibrant gestures and existential despair, reflecting on the richness of Spanish life against the backdrop of personal quests and the harsh realities of the human condition. Telemachus expresses a longing to capture a particular gesture that symbolizes his experiences, encapsulating his search for meaning in a world marked by both beauty and transience.
Streets of Night
"Streets of Night" by John Dos Passos is a novel written in the early 20th century. The narrative immerses readers in the lives of young men navigating the complexities of friendship, romance, and social expectations during the vibrancy and challenges of college life. The main characters, Cham Mason and Fanshaw, encapsulate the struggles of self-identity and the quest for meaningful connections, particularly as they prepare for a canoe outing with two chorus girls. The opening of the novel introduces a lively conversation between Cham and Fanshaw as they discuss their plans for the evening. Cham is eager for Fanshaw to join him on a date with two girls, Phoebe and Elise, despite Fanshaw's reluctance and anxiety about fitting into the social scene. As they prepare, the atmosphere is filled with youthful apprehension and excitement, framed against the backdrop of a warm summer day. The narrative transitions from their playful banter to an exploration of the dynamic relationships between the characters, leading to a shared canoe adventure that symbolizes their burgeoning exploration of youth and romance amidst the complexities of societal expectations.
Facing the chair : $b Story of the Americanization of two foreignborn workmen
"Facing the Chair: Story of the Americanization of Two Foreignborn Workmen" by John Dos Passos is a historical account written in the late 1920s. The work centers around the infamous Sacco-Vanzetti case, highlighting the wrongful convictions of two Italian immigrants on charges of murder amid a backdrop of anti-immigrant sentiment and labor radicalism during the early 20th century. It serves as a poignant exploration of justice, prejudice, and the struggles of immigrant workers in America, aiming to ignite critical discussion on the impact of societal biases. The opening of this account sets a dramatic tone by presenting the events leading up to the arrest of Nicola Sacco and Bartolomeo Vanzetti, characterizing them as radicals and scapegoats for a crime they did not commit. It portrays the atmosphere of fear and suspicion toward immigrants, particularly Italians, during a time marked by violent crime and a government crackdown on perceived radicals. The text includes powerful appeals from notable figures like Anatole France and Eugene V. Debs, who condemn the injustices faced by Sacco and Vanzetti. Through affidavits and the recounting of their trial, the narrative underscores the manipulation of justice by authorities intent on quelling dissent, setting the stage for a broader examination of themes surrounding class struggle and civil rights.
A Pushcart at the Curb
"A Pushcart at the Curb" by John Dos Passos is a collection of poems written in the early 20th century, particularly around the period following World War I. The work captures the essence of daily life, human experiences, and emotions across various landscapes, likely reflecting a post-war disillusionment. The poems evoke vivid imagery and sensations, ranging from bustling urban settings to rural scenes, often underlining themes of longing, simplicity, and the transitory nature of life. At the start of this collection, the reader is introduced to vivid depictions of streets and marketplaces filled with life. The imagery paints a dynamic picture as the scenes unfold—blind musicians playing, vendors selling wares, and the varied expressions of the people populating these environments. Dos Passos's language is rich and sensory, capturing not only the physical surroundings but also the emotional undertones of the characters involved in these day-to-day interactions. Through these early verses, the poet lays the groundwork for an exploration of communal life, harmony, and the inevitable shadows of loss and yearning that permeate human existence.
One Man's Initiation—1917
"One Man's Initiation—1917" by John Dos Passos is a novel written in the early 20th century. This work captures the experiences of young American soldiers during World War I, showcasing the contrasting emotions of excitement, fear, and existential contemplation as they navigate the chaotic landscape of the war. The primary character, Martin Howe, embarks on a journey across the Atlantic and into the trenches of France, facing the stark realities of war while grappling with the ideals and motivations that led him there. The opening of the story sets the stage on a bustling wharf, filled with anticipation as soldiers prepare to depart for battle. Martin Howe stands at the stern of a ship, reflecting on the gravity of his situation while engaging in lighthearted exchanges with fellow soldiers and conversations with women aboard. Amidst the lively atmosphere, a sense of dread looms as characters discuss the horrors of warfare and toxic gases that threaten their lives. The narrative swiftly transitions from carefree banter to moments of somber realization about the brutal nature of war, showcasing the spectrum of emotions experienced by those involved. Through vivid imagery and dialogues, Dos Passos introduces readers to Martin's internal struggles as he reconciles his youthful optimism with the harsh realities waiting for him on the European front.