The Leatherwood God

by William Dean Howells

"The Leatherwood God" by William Dean Howells is a novel written in the late 19th century. The narrative unfolds in the early 1800s in a rural settlement where the arrival of a mysterious figure known as the Leatherwood God sparks a fervent religious revival. The story delves into the lives of the local settlers, notably focusing on characters like Matthew Braile and the enigmatic Dylks, who emerges as a charismatic preacher and captivates the community with his claims of divine authority. At the start of the novel, the peaceful setting of Leatherwood Creek is introduced, along with its inhabitants and their simple lives centered around agriculture and spirituality. The story reveals a village shaped by religious fervor yet marked by varying beliefs and inner conflicts. The opening chapters depict a series of conversations between the local characters, such as the skeptical Matthew Braile and the enthusiastic Abel Reverdy, as they discuss the recent camp meeting where Dylks made a striking impression. Dylks's sudden appearance, along with his strange behaviors—including a loud snort that captivates the attendees—sets the stage for a brewing storm of devotion and doubt within the community. The solid foundation of their beliefs begins to tremble as his influence spreads, hinting at the internal and external conflicts that will arise as the narrative progresses.