Author

F. Berkeley (Frank Berkeley) Smith

1869-1931

F. Berkeley (Frank Berkeley) Smith (1869-1931) is a public-domain author available on Rivro. Read free books, explore subjects, and discover related classics.

Subjects

Books by F. Berkeley (Frank Berkeley) Smith

How Paris Amuses Itself

"How Paris Amuses Itself" by F. Berkeley Smith is a travelogue and cultural commentary written in the early 20th century. The work explores the vibrant and multifaceted entertainment landscape of Paris, detailing the various shows, cafés, and leisurely pursuits that define the city's charm. Through rich descriptions and engaging narratives, Smith showcases the myriad ways that Parisians seek enjoyment, from lavish theaters to casual street performances. The opening of the book establishes a lively scene in Paris, depicting the city's attractions under both sunny and rainy conditions. It paints a picture of ordinary life infused with color and excitement, illustrating bustling cafés filled with a diverse cast of characters and lively interactions. Smith captures the essence of Parisian life, where joy is encountered in both grand spectacles and simple moments, inviting readers to immerse themselves in the celebrations and cultural experiences that make the city a perpetual delight for its inhabitants and visitors alike.

A Village of Vagabonds

"A Village of Vagabonds" by F. Berkeley Smith is a novel written in the early 20th century. The story revolves around a group of charming characters in a quaint fishing village called Pont du Sable, a place filled with endearing peculiarities, camaraderie, and secrets. The protagonist, a passionate artist, has abandoned his comfortable life to fully embrace the beauty and rustic allure of the village, leading to a series of encounters that explore friendship, love, and the captivating simplicity of rural life. The opening of the novel introduces us to the protagonist as he decides to move to Pont du Sable, despite the protests from his friends who dismiss the village as a "lost hole of a village of sacré vagabonds." Set against the backdrop of market day at Madame Fontaine’s café, we gain insight into the protagonist's desire for a deeper connection with nature and his love for hunting, having become enchanted by his visits to the marshlands. Through his reflections on the village life and the interesting characters he meets, including a friendly butcher, a blacksmith, and the local mayor, the reader is drawn into the vibrant world of Pont du Sable, hinting at the adventures and relationships that will unfold as the story progresses.

The Real Latin Quarter

"The Real Latin Quarter" by F. Berkeley Smith is a vivid exploration of Paris's bohemian district, written in the early 20th century. This work combines travel writing with memoir-like narratives, capturing the lively streets, colorful characters, and unique spirit of the Quartier Latin, which was known for its artistic and intellectual vitality. Through rich descriptions, Smith likely invites readers to experience the pulse of this culturally significant area through the eyes of its inhabitants. The beginning of the book introduces readers to the bustling Rue Vaugirard, setting the stage for a personal narrative filled with everyday encounters in the Quartier Latin. The author observes and shares moments from his own life, such as shopping at local markets and enjoying small cafés. His keen eye captures the distinctive atmosphere of the area—all its noise, vibrancy, and camaraderie among the artists, students, and everyday Parisians who populate its streets. The opening portion establishes a colorful and intimate portrayal of life in the Latin Quarter, enticing readers to delve deeper into the stories and characters that emerge throughout the book.

The Lady of Big Shanty

"The Lady of Big Shanty" by F. Berkeley Smith is a novel written in the early 20th century. This story delves into the themes of human resilience against nature, framed within the backdrop of the Adirondack wilderness. It introduces William Holcomb, a young man from a primitive settlement, who navigates the complexities of human relationships when brought into contact with the wealthier class during a luncheon at The Players. The opening of the novel depicts a lively luncheon scene filled with an array of characters from different professions. William Holcomb is introduced as he arrives late due to a train delay, making a notable impression on his more affluent companions. Their curiosity about him grows as he reminisces about a prior incident in which he saved another man's life in the woods. The conversation then shifts to the mysterious figure of Bob Dinsmore, a fugitive, hinting at Holcomb's deeper connections to the wilderness and the drama that unfolds within it. This snippet captures the dynamics between the rustic and the refined, setting the stage for the unfolding narrative woven around nature's powerful influence and human action.