Author
Elia Wilkinson Peattie
1862-1935
Elia Wilkinson Peattie (1862-1935) is a public-domain author available on Rivro. Read free books, explore subjects, and discover related classics.
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Books by Elia Wilkinson Peattie
Poems You Ought to Know
"Poems You Ought to Know" by Elia Wilkinson Peattie is an anthology of poetry compiled in the early 20th century. The collection is aimed at rekindling a love for poetry among its readers, featuring verses from a diverse array of renowned poets. Peattie curates this selection with the hope of providing insights and beauty that uplift and inspire those who may have drifted away from lyrical appreciation. The opening of the anthology lays the groundwork for the reader's journey through poetry. It begins with an introduction emphasizing the importance of dedicating moments each day to the nurture of one's "inner life" through poetry, quoting Professor Charles Eliot Norton’s view on its restorative powers. This introduces the objective of the collection: to inspire both new and old lovers of poetry. Following this, the contents list reveals a rich tapestry of poems from famous poets such as Wordsworth, Shakespeare, and Byron, promising a rewarding exploration of classic verses that exemplify universal themes of life, beauty, love, and mortality.
A Mountain Woman
"A Mountain Woman" by Elia Wilkinson Peattie is a collection of short stories written in the late 19th century. The book features tales that revolve around the experiences of women in mountainous settings and their struggles and triumphs, capturing a blend of human emotion and the natural landscape. The opening narrative highlights the life of Leroy Brainard and his wife, described as a "mountain woman," who contrasts with the more refined women of Eastern society. At the start of the collection, the story follows Leroy Brainard’s introduction to his new bride, a figure of strength and simplicity emerging from the mountains. Her presence is met with a mix of curiosity and disbelief from Leroy's friend, Victor, and his sister, Jessica, who grapple with the peculiarities of this "primitive" woman. As the narrative unfolds, the mountain woman expresses her longing for the rugged terrain of her home, reflecting on the emptiness she feels in a world devoid of the mountains that have defined her existence. This sets the stage for a deeper exploration of her character and the challenges she may face in adjusting to a more socially constrained way of life. The opening portion establishes a compelling premise centered on the intersection of rugged individualism and societal expectations, drawing readers into the lives of these vividly drawn characters.
Painted Windows
"Painted Windows" by Elia Wilkinson Peattie is a semi-autobiographical collection of reflective essays written during the late 19th to early 20th century. This beautiful work captures the essence of nostalgia and the transformative experiences of childhood and growing up. Through a series of vignettes, Peattie explores themes of memory, solitude, friendship, and travel, offering poignant insights into personal and collective experiences that shape one's identity. Throughout "Painted Windows," the author recounts her vivid memories, starting from her adventurous childhood days spent traveling with her father, to the feelings of solitude and longing for connection amongst her family. Each chapter serves as a window into her past—reflecting on the joys and trials of youth, the pangs of loneliness, the excitement of discovering friendship, and the profound emotions surrounding family dynamics. The narrative unfolds with rich imagery and heartfelt descriptions, illustrating her experiences and emotions, as she moves from enchanting explorations in nature to tumultuous realities such as familial neglect and the confrontations with life's complexities. Ultimately, Peattie's work resonates with anyone who has ever looked back on their own childhood, filled with both innocence and disillusionment, evoking the bittersweet nature of memory and the enduring impact it has on one's life.
The Shape of Fear
"The Shape of Fear" by Elia Wilkinson Peattie is a collection of ghostly tales likely written in the late 19th century. The collection features a variety of intriguing stories, with a focus on the themes of fear, the supernatural, and the complexities of human emotions, encapsulated in vivid storytelling that draws the reader into a realm where the ethereal mingles with the living. The opening portion introduces Tim O'Connor, a man caught between his artistic aspirations and the haunting grip of fear, particularly a fear of darkness and ghosts. His character is vividly painted as a once-idealistic poet now disillusioned by life and constrained by a toxic relationship with a captivating yet dangerous woman. Amidst the backdrop of a lively saloon culture, Tim’s interactions with friends lead to contemplative discussions about his fears, culminating in a chilling encounter with a beautiful and mysterious apparition he refers to as "the Shape of Fear." This encounter leaves him profoundly affected and paves the way for themes of existential dread and reflection on lost opportunities, setting the tone for the supernatural explorations to follow in the collection.
The Precipice: A Novel
"The Precipice: A Novel" by Elia W. Peattie is a fictional work written during the early 20th century. The narrative centers around Kate Barrington, a recent graduate who returns home after her time at the University of Chicago, grappling with her identity, family dynamics, and the societal expectations placed on women during this period. Through Kate, the novel examines themes of personal ambition and the clash of traditional values with the emerging independence of women. The opening of the novel introduces Kate as she bids farewell to her friend Lena Vroom before heading home, reflecting on her time at university and her mixed feelings about returning to a life structured by her parental home. Kate's thoughts oscillate between fond memories and frustrations regarding societal norms, particularly the expectation for women to conform to traditional roles. Her interactions reveal her compassionate nature, particularly towards Lena, who seems to struggle with her own sense of belonging. As Kate arrives home, she is enveloped in the bittersweet emotions of reunion—capturing the tension between her aspirations and the confinements of her expected domestic role, setting the stage for her internal conflict that will be further developed throughout the narrative.
Azalea: The Story of a Little Girl in the Blue Ridge Mountains
"Azalea: The Story of a Little Girl in the Blue Ridge Mountains" by Elia W. Peattie is a children's novel written in the early 20th century. The story centers around a young girl named Azalea, who, after experiencing a series of heart-wrenching events—including the death of her mother—finds herself taken in by the loving McBirney family. This poignant tale explores themes of family, love, and the transition from hardship to finding a place to call home. The opening of the book introduces the McBirney family and their simple mountain life through the eyes of Jim, their son. As the family goes about their daily routines, they encounter a traveling circus troupe whose circumstances lead to an unexpected tragedy. When Azalea, a girl from the troupe, is left orphaned, Mary McBirney takes her in with a motherly instinct to protect and nurture her. Their deepening connection and the challenges they face set the stage for Azalea to find belonging and love in her new home, contrasting her previous life of uncertainty on the road.
Azalea at Sunset Gap
"Azalea at Sunset Gap" by Elia Wilkinson Peattie is a novel written in the early 20th century. The story revolves around three young girls—Azalea McBirney, Carin Carson, and Annie Laurie Pace—as they plan a summer adventure to teach school in the mountains, specifically at Sunset Gap. As they navigate their friendships and the challenges of rural life, the novel explores themes of friendship, duty, and personal growth. The opening of the novel introduces the main characters during a leisurely ride, setting a vibrant and picturesque scene characterized by blossoming dogwoods and effervescent spring air. Conversations between the girls reveal their ambitions and friendships, alongside Azalea’s background as a foster child taken in by a loving mountain family. As they discuss their plan to return to Sunset Gap to teach, the narrative moves into the adults’ perspectives regarding their safety and preparation, ultimately setting up the backdrop for their summer adventure. The opening lays the groundwork for the girls' journey not only into the mountains but into the deeper realms of their own identities and aspirations.
Annie Laurie and Azalea
"Annie Laurie and Azalea" by Elia Wilkinson Peattie is a novel written in the early 20th century. The story focuses on the lives of two young girls, Azalea and Annie Laurie, who come from contrasting backgrounds and must navigate the complexities of friendship and identity in a small community. The narrative explores themes of belonging, family—and the challenges posed by new relationships. At the start of the novel, we are introduced to Azalea McBirney, a girl raised by the McBirney family in the mountains, and her affectionate bond with her foster brother Jim. As they prepare for school, a sense of urgency fills the atmosphere. The story shifts to Annie Laurie Pace, who is getting ready for church and reveals that she feels out of place as she transitions to a new school with prestigious classmates. Her arrival at the school is marked by uncertainty as she grapples with the cold reception from her peers, Azalea and Carin. The opening chapters set the stage for the emotional developments and conflicts that will arise as both girls confront their pasts and forge a new friendship amidst the challenges they face together.
Azalea's Silver Web
"Azalea's Silver Web" by Elia Wilkinson Peattie is a novel written in the early 20th century. The story centers around Azalea McBirney, a young woman with aspirations of independence and creativity. As she navigates the complexities of her life on Tennyson Mountain, including the challenges faced by her adoptive family and the secrets of her own heritage, Azalea's journey unfolds against the backdrop of personal growth and familial connections. The opening portion of the novel introduces Azalea as she writes a heartfelt letter to her friend Carin, reflecting on the changes in her life and the struggles she faces at home. Her foster family, the McBirneys, is experiencing hardship due to the deteriorating health of Father McBirney, which places additional burdens on her as the family looks to her for support. With youthful energy and determination, Azalea expresses her desire to improve their situation, engaging in various crafts while contemplating her future and her identity. In this setting, themes of self-discovery, friendship, and the pursuit of one's dreams begin to emerge as Azalea embarks on her quest to weave a metaphorical silver web of her own making.
A Michigan Man 1891
"A Michigan Man" by Elia Wilkinson Peattie is a poignant novel written during the late 19th century. This work explores themes of solitude, aspiration, and the harsh realities of life through the lens of its main character, Luther Dallas, a lumberjack whose life is transformed by tragedy and subsequent hardship. It offers a reflection on the intersection of nature and humanity while delving into the struggles of a man navigating the complexities of urban existence after a catastrophic accident. The story centers on Luther Dallas, an experienced woodman whose life takes a dramatic turn when he is crushed by a falling tree. As he recovers, he embarks on a journey to find his estranged sister in the bustling city, only to face the stark contrast between his rustic upbringing and the chaotic urban landscape. Suffering from physical and emotional exhaustion, Luther grapples with feelings of alienation and despair, ultimately finding himself lost in a world that feels foreign and unforgiving. The novel captures his gradual descent into poverty and desperation, emphasizing the relentless pull of his memories of the forest as he yearns for familiarity and connection amidst the harshness of city life. In the end, his tormented soul seems to find a final escape from both the wilderness and urbanity, reflecting on the cyclical nature of life and the essence of human suffering.