The White Old Maid (From "Twice Told Tales")   By: Nathaniel Hawthorne (1804-1864)

The White Old Maid, a short story from Nathaniel Hawthorne's collection Twice Told Tales, is a haunting and thought-provoking tale that explores themes of sin, guilt, and the consequences of one's actions.

Set in a small New England town, the story follows Miss Mary Parker, an old maid who lives alone in a dilapidated house. Known for her mysterious and reclusive nature, Miss Parker becomes the subject of much gossip and speculation among the townsfolk. As the narrative unfolds, the reader is gradually introduced to the secrets and sins that have secluded her from society for so many years.

Hawthorne's exquisite prose vividly captures the atmosphere of the story, with detailed descriptions of the decaying environment and the emotions that engulf Miss Parker. The author's use of symbolism is prevalent throughout the narrative, as he masterfully interweaves elements like the white garb worn by Miss Parker and the tragic figure of a young girl that serves as a reminder of her past transgressions.

The characters are expertly depicted, each embodying different facets of human nature. Miss Parker herself is a complex figure, tormented by her guilt and haunted by the consequences of her actions. Through her character, Hawthorne delves into the idea of sin as a burden that one carries throughout their life, begging the question of whether redemption is ever truly attainable.

The White Old Maid is a story that delves deep into the human psyche, examining the ghosts of the past that continue to haunt our present. It raises profound questions about the nature of sin, guilt, and the possibility of redemption. Hawthorne's skillful storytelling evokes a somber and introspective mood, leaving the reader with a lingering sense of unease long after the final page.

This collection of Twice Told Tales solidifies Nathaniel Hawthorne's place as a master of the short story form. With its exploration of complex human emotions and its haunting narrative, The White Old Maid stands as one of the standout stories within this collection. It is a must-read for those who appreciate thought-provoking literature that explores the darker corners of the human soul.

First Page:

Suddenly, the fixed features seemed to move, with dark emotion. Strange fantasy! It was but the shadow of the fringed curtain, waving betwixt the dead face and the moonlight, as the door of the chamber opened, and a girl stole softly to the bedside. Was there delusion in the moonbeams, or did her gesture and her eye betray a gleam of triumph, as she bent over the pale corpse pale as itself and pressed her living lips to the cold ones of the dead? As she drew back from that long kiss, her features writhed, as if a proud heart were fighting with its anguish. Again it seemed that the features of the corpse had moved responsive to her own. Still an illusion! The silken curtain had waved, a second time, betwixt the dead face and the moonlight, as another fair young girl unclosed the door, and glided, ghost like, to the bedside... Continue reading book >>