A Man's Woman By: Frank Norris (1870-1902)
In "A Man's Woman" by Frank Norris, readers are treated to a riveting tale that challenges societal norms and explores the complexities of human relationships. Set in early 20th-century San Francisco, the novel depicts the unconventional love story between Vandover, a young and ambitious artist, and his enigmatic muse, Flossie. From the very beginning, the author immerses us in the richly detailed world of turn-of-the-century San Francisco. The vivid descriptions of the city's bustling streets, vibrant neighborhoods, and class divisions transport readers back in time, allowing them to experience the era's cultural and social dynamics firsthand. This historical backdrop serves as the perfect canvas for the narrative that unfolds, providing a thought-provoking exploration of gender roles and societal expectations. At the heart of the story lies the enigmatic character of Flossie, a woman who challenges the traditional notions of femininity and defies categorization. Norris skilfully captures the contradictions within Flossie's character, presenting her as both captivating and elusive. As readers delve deeper into her psyche, they are confronted with the complexities of desire, power, and identity, all of which drive the novel's gripping plot. What sets "A Man's Woman" apart is Norris's ability to delve into the depths of human emotions and psychology. With penetrating insight, he explores the inner turmoil that Vandover experiences as he grapples with his attraction to Flossie and the societal pressures he must confront. This psychological depth gives the narrative an authentic and relatable quality, making the characters come alive on the page. Despite its undeniable strengths, the novel does have its flaws. At times, the pacing feels uneven, with certain sections dragging while others move too quickly. Some readers may also find the moral ambiguity of certain characters and their actions unsettling, as it challenges conventional notions of right and wrong. However, it is precisely this moral complexity that makes the story so compelling and thought-provoking. Overall, "A Man's Woman" is a captivating work of fiction that transcends the boundaries of its time. It immerses readers in the vivid world of early 20th-century San Francisco, presents complex characters that challenge societal norms, and delves into the depths of human desires and emotions. Although not without its flaws, this novel is a powerful exploration of gender, identity, and the complexities of love. Frank Norris's skillful storytelling and thought-provoking themes make "A Man's Woman" a must-read for fans of classic literature. First Page: A MAN'S WOMAN by FRANK NORRIS 1904 The following novel was completed March 22, 1899, and sent to the printer in October of the same year. After the plates had been made notice was received that a play called "A Man's Woman" had been written by Anne Crawford Flexner, and that this title had been copyrighted. As it was impossible to change the name of the novel at the time this notice was received, it has been published under its original title. F.N. New York. A MAN'S WOMAN I. At four o'clock in the morning everybody in the tent was still asleep, exhausted by the terrible march of the previous day. The hummocky ice and pressure ridges that Bennett had foreseen had at last been met with, and, though camp had been broken at six o'clock and though men and dogs had hauled and tugged and wrestled with the heavy sledges until five o'clock in the afternoon, only a mile and a half had been covered. But though the progress was slow, it was yet progress. It was not the harrowing, heart breaking immobility of those long months aboard the Freja. Every yard to the southward, though won at the expense of a battle with the ice, brought them nearer to Wrangel Island and ultimate safety. Then, too, at supper time the unexpected had happened. Bennett, moved no doubt by their weakened condition, had dealt out extra rations to each man: one and two thirds ounces of butter and six and two thirds ounces of aleuronate bread a veritable luxury after the unvarying diet of pemmican, lime juice, and dried potatoes of the past fortnight... Continue reading book >>

A Man's Woman By: Frank Norris (1870-1902)

In "A Man's Woman" by Frank Norris, readers are treated to a riveting tale that challenges societal norms and explores the complexities of human relationships. Set in early 20th-century San Francisco, the novel depicts the unconventional love story between Vandover, a young and ambitious artist, and his enigmatic muse, Flossie.

From the very beginning, the author immerses us in the richly detailed world of turn-of-the-century San Francisco. The vivid descriptions of the city's bustling streets, vibrant neighborhoods, and class divisions transport readers back in time, allowing them to experience the era's cultural and social dynamics firsthand. This historical backdrop serves as the perfect canvas for the narrative that unfolds, providing a thought-provoking exploration of gender roles and societal expectations.

At the heart of the story lies the enigmatic character of Flossie, a woman who challenges the traditional notions of femininity and defies categorization. Norris skilfully captures the contradictions within Flossie's character, presenting her as both captivating and elusive. As readers delve deeper into her psyche, they are confronted with the complexities of desire, power, and identity, all of which drive the novel's gripping plot.

What sets "A Man's Woman" apart is Norris's ability to delve into the depths of human emotions and psychology. With penetrating insight, he explores the inner turmoil that Vandover experiences as he grapples with his attraction to Flossie and the societal pressures he must confront. This psychological depth gives the narrative an authentic and relatable quality, making the characters come alive on the page.

Despite its undeniable strengths, the novel does have its flaws. At times, the pacing feels uneven, with certain sections dragging while others move too quickly. Some readers may also find the moral ambiguity of certain characters and their actions unsettling, as it challenges conventional notions of right and wrong. However, it is precisely this moral complexity that makes the story so compelling and thought-provoking.

Overall, "A Man's Woman" is a captivating work of fiction that transcends the boundaries of its time. It immerses readers in the vivid world of early 20th-century San Francisco, presents complex characters that challenge societal norms, and delves into the depths of human desires and emotions. Although not without its flaws, this novel is a powerful exploration of gender, identity, and the complexities of love. Frank Norris's skillful storytelling and thought-provoking themes make "A Man's Woman" a must-read for fans of classic literature.

First Page:

A MAN'S WOMAN

FRANK NORRIS

1904

The following novel was completed March 22, 1899, and sent to the printer in October of the same year. After the plates had been made notice was received that a play called "A Man's Woman" had been written by Anne Crawford Flexner, and that this title had been copyrighted.

As it was impossible to change the name of the novel at the time this notice was received, it has been published under its original title.

F.N.

New York.

A MAN'S WOMAN

At four o'clock in the morning everybody in the tent was still asleep, exhausted by the terrible march of the previous day. The hummocky ice and pressure ridges that Bennett had foreseen had at last been met with, and, though camp had been broken at six o'clock and though men and dogs had hauled and tugged and wrestled with the heavy sledges until five o'clock in the afternoon, only a mile and a half had been covered. But though the progress was slow, it was yet progress. It was not the harrowing, heart breaking immobility of those long months aboard the Freja. Every yard to the southward, though won at the expense of a battle with the ice, brought them nearer to Wrangel Island and ultimate safety.

Then, too, at supper time the unexpected had happened. Bennett, moved no doubt by their weakened condition, had dealt out extra rations to each man: one and two thirds ounces of butter and six and two thirds ounces of aleuronate bread a veritable luxury after the unvarying diet of pemmican, lime juice, and dried potatoes of the past fortnight... Continue reading book >>

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