ODTAA: A novel

by John Masefield

"ODTAA: A Novel" by John Masefield is a historical fiction work written in the early 20th century. Set in a fictional land called Santa Barbara, which seems to blend elements of Latin America with a wealth of political strife, the narrative unfolds against a backdrop of social and political conflict between two factions, the Reds and Whites. Through the eyes of characters like Highworth Foliat Ridden and Rosa Piranha, the story touches on themes of love, identity, and the effects of a tumultuous political climate. The opening of the novel establishes a richly detailed world, beginning with a geographical description of Santa Barbara and its provinces, hinting at the historical turbulence that has shaped the region. Different characters are introduced, including the ambitious revolutionaries, entrenched aristocrats, and the young protagonist, Hi, who is sent from England to seek his fortunes. As Hi arrives in Santa Barbara, he is met with a vibrant but complex atmosphere rife with underlying tension, highlighting the looming threat of conflict tied to the policies of the dictatorial leader, Don Lopez. There’s an immediate sense of change and unrest as Hi navigates this new world, where friendships can be formed or broken based on one's political loyalties, setting the stage for various personal and social dilemmas that will unfold throughout the story.