Seeing Things at Night

by Heywood Broun

"Seeing Things at Night" by Heywood Broun is a collection of essays written in the early 20th century. The book features a series of seemingly spontaneous articles that reflect on various topics, ranging from whimsical tales about dragons to contemplative observations on life and literature. Broun's engaging prose and keen social commentary invite readers into the whimsical and often humorous aspects of human behavior, offering insights into both the mundane and the extraordinary. The opening of the work presents an introduction that explains the author's intent behind the title, clarifying that the essays within are not exclusively theatrical, but rather pertain to his reflections crafted for newspaper readership. It highlights Broun's candid and whimsical approach, setting the stage for the first essay, "The Fifty-First Dragon," which introduces the character Gawaine le Coeur-Hardy, a reluctant student at a knight school who, much to his surprise, is trained to slay dragons. The narrative combines humor and irony, establishing a lighthearted tone that permeates the collection. This initial piece serves as an exemplary taste of Broun’s clever storytelling and sharp wit, engaging readers with a narrative that is both entertaining and thought-provoking.