Dr. Bullivant (From: "The Doliver Romance and Other Pieces: Tales and Sketches")   By: Nathaniel Hawthorne (1804-1864)

Dr. Bullivant is a captivating collection of short stories by the American writer Nathaniel Hawthorne. Known for his dark and mysterious tales, Hawthorne once again proves his proficiency in delving into the depths of human nature and exploring the complexities of the human psyche.

The book opens with the titular story, "Dr. Bullivant," which follows the life of a peculiar doctor whose unconventional methods and strange experiments leave readers both intrigued and disturbed. Hawthorne expertly weaves together elements of science fiction, horror, and psychological thriller to create a tale that keeps readers on the edge of their seats.

One of the strengths of Hawthorne's writing lies in his ability to immerse readers in vivid and atmospheric settings. Whether it is a melancholic New England town or a desolate mansion shrouded in mystery, each story in the collection transports readers to a unique world. Hawthorne's attention to detail and his command of language are evident throughout, making every scene come alive with vibrant imagery.

Another notable aspect of Dr. Bullivant is the author's exploration of themes such as guilt, sin, and the consequences of human actions. Hawthorne has always had a profound understanding of the dark side of humanity, and in this collection, he skillfully delves into the innermost thoughts and emotions of his characters. From the moral dilemmas faced by a remorseful minister to the haunting memories of a man grappling with his past, Hawthorne presents readers with thought-provoking reflections on the human condition.

While some might find Hawthorne's writing style dense and the pacing of certain stories slow, those who appreciate his signature blend of psychological depth and allegorical storytelling will be enthralled. Each story serves as a contemplation on the human experience, offering insights into the complexities of human relationships, the weight of guilt, and the ever-present struggle between good and evil.

In conclusion, Dr. Bullivant is a mesmerizing collection of stories that showcases Nathaniel Hawthorne's undeniable talent for weaving tales that both captivate and challenge readers. A must-read for fans of Gothic literature, the book proves once again why Hawthorne is considered one of the greatest American writers of his time. Whether you are new to Hawthorne's work or familiar with his oeuvre, Dr. Bullivant is a literary journey that will linger in your mind long after you turn the final page.

First Page:

His person was not eminent enough, either by nature or circumstance, to deserve a public memorial simply for his own sake, after the lapse of a century and a half from the era in which he flourished. His character, in the view which we propose to take of it, may give a species of distinctness and point to some remarks on the tone and composition of New England society, modified as it became by new ingredients from the eastern world, and by the attrition of sixty or seventy years over the rugged peculiarities of the original settlers. We are perhaps accustomed to employ too sombre a pencil in picturing the earlier times among the Puritans, because at our cold distance, we form our ideas almost wholly from their severest features. It is like gazing on some scenes in the land which we inherit from them; we see the mountains, rising sternly and with frozen summits tip to heaven, and the forests, waving in massy depths where sunshine seems a profanation, and we see the gray mist, like the duskiness of years, shedding a chill obscurity over the whole; but the green and pleasant spots in the hollow of the hills, the warm places in the heart of what looks desolate, are hidden from our eyes... Continue reading book >>