Blow The Man Down: A Romance Of The Coast

by Holman Day

"Blow The Man Down: A Romance Of The Coast" by Holman Day is a novel written in the early 20th century. Set against the backdrop of the coastal and yachting life, the story revolves around Captain Boyd Mayo, who grapples with his emotions and sense of duty while entangled with Alma Marston, the daughter of his employer. The narrative captures themes of love and class distinction, emphasizing the captain's struggle to balance his feelings for Alma with the societal expectations and his role as a hired man. The opening of the novel introduces us to Captain Mayo, who is tormented by an overwhelming desire for Alma after an impulsive kiss. As the captain reflects on this moment, he battles feelings of shame and confusion about his place in her world, realizing that he is both drawn to and terrified by his emotions. The tension escalates as Alma expresses her feelings for him, complicating their relationship further with the intrusion of her father's expectations. The groundwork is laid for a compelling romantic tale, rich with emotional conflict, as Mayo navigates both the treacherous waters of the sea and the complexities of love.