Chita: A Memory of Last Island

by Lafcadio Hearn

"Chita: A Memory of Last Island" by Lafcadio Hearn is a novel written during the late 19th century. The story unfolds on the Louisiana coast, specifically at Last Island, touching upon themes of nature's power and human folly against the backdrop of a catastrophic storm that strikes during a festive gathering. The opening of the book describes the lush and haunting beauty of the Louisiana bayous and the islands along the Gulf, setting a vivid scene of the coastal landscape. Readers are introduced to Last Island, which was once a vibrant and popular resort but now lies in ruin, foreshadowing the tragic events to come. Against this backdrop, the narrative depicts the last moments of revelry at a hotel during a hurricane, where a sense of impending doom contrasts sharply with the gaiety of the guests. As the storm gathers strength, the book immersively recounts the initial tranquility that is soon shattered, hinting at the devastation that will soon unfold.