Author
John Lang
1849-1917
John Lang (1849-1917) is a public-domain author available on Rivro. Read free books, explore subjects, and discover related classics.
Subjects
Books by John Lang
Stories of the Border Marches
"Stories of the Border Marches" by John Lang and Jean Lang is a historical collection of tales drawn from the folklore of the English-Scottish border, likely written in the early 20th century. The work delves into various legends and stories tied to the tumultuous history of the borderlands, spotlighting characters such as supernatural figures and infamous outlaws. The narratives blend reality and myth, exploring themes of bravery, drama, and the supernatural amidst a backdrop of war-torn landscapes. The opening of the collection begins with a preface that reflects on the charm of these old stories, lamenting their overshadowing by modernity. The first tale, "The White Lady of Blenkinsopp," introduces readers to a haunting legend of a woman who brought treasure with her to an ancient castle but suffered a tragic love story, leading to her disappearance and the folklore that followed. The tale intertwines elements of intrigue and the supernatural as it unfolds the history of the castle, the violent lives of its past inhabitants, and the spectral figure that haunts it. This captivating blend of history and myth immediately immerses readers in the rich tapestry of border lore that characterizes the collection.
Wanderings in India, and Other Sketches of Life in Hindostan
"Wanderings in India, and Other Sketches of Life in Hindostan" by John Lang is a collection of observational essays written in the mid-19th century. The work provides a vivid portrayal of life in India during British colonial rule, with particular emphasis on the social dynamics in the hill station of Mussoorie, highlighting the interactions among British expatriates, their families, and the challenges they face in this exotic locale. The opening of the book introduces readers to the Himalaya Club, a retreat for British officials and their families looking to escape the oppressive heat of the Indian plains. It sets a leisurely tone as the narrator describes the club's social scene filled with idlers, intricate relationships, and casual gossip, emphasizing the vibrancy of life in the hills. Through the eyes of the narrator, we meet several characters, including grass widows and military officers engaging in various social activities, from breakfasts to morning rides, all while wrestling with personal issues and pressing societal expectations. The beginning sketches an intimate slice of colonial life, blending humor and keen social commentary that captures the complexities of 19th-century Anglo-Indian society.