The Prophetic Pictures (From "Twice Told Tales") By: Nathaniel Hawthorne (1804-1864)
"The Prophetic Pictures" is a captivating short story collection by Nathaniel Hawthorne that showcases his brilliant storytelling abilities and unique perspective on human nature. Though not as widely known as his other works, this collection is a hidden gem that deserves greater recognition. Hawthorne's exquisite writing style and vivid descriptions immediately draw readers into each story. The prose is eloquent and evocative, setting the stage for the mysterious and often eerie events that unfold. The author's ability to create a haunting atmosphere is truly remarkable, leaving readers on the edge of their seats throughout. One of the standout tales in this collection is the titular "Prophetic Pictures." Hawthorne explores the themes of art, destiny, and the power of perception in this thought-provoking story. The protagonist's encounter with a series of ever-changing portraits that foretell the future is both fascinating and unsettling. Hawthorne masterfully intertwines supernatural elements with moral dilemmas, forcing readers to question the limits of human knowledge and the consequences of tampering with fate. Another notable story is "The Haunted Mind," which delves into the inner darkness that lurks within the human psyche. Through a compelling narrative, Hawthorne explores the dualities of good and evil, sanity and madness, and the fragile line that separates them. The haunting imagery and psychological introspection present in this story make it a standout among the collection. Hawthorne's characters are expertly crafted, each with their own unique motivations and flaws. Whether it is the tormented artist in "The Prophetic Pictures" or the deeply troubled protagonist of "The Haunted Mind," these characters come to life on the page, eliciting a range of emotions from readers. One of the strengths of "The Prophetic Pictures" lies in its ability to provoke introspection and reflection. Hawthorne's stories often contain subtle moral lessons, encouraging readers to examine their own actions and beliefs. This collection serves as a reminder that even the most ordinary individuals can be touched by extraordinary circumstances, leading to transformative experiences. While the book does have some slower moments, overall, "The Prophetic Pictures" is a riveting collection that showcases Hawthorne's utmost literary finesse. With its enchanting narratives and profound themes, this book immerses readers in a world where reality intertwines with the supernatural. It is a testament to Hawthorne's enduring talent and an enthralling addition to his impressive body of work. First Page: TWICE TOLD TALES THE PROPHETIC PICTURES By Nathaniel Hawthorne [This story was suggested by an anecdote of Stuart, related in Dunlap's History of the Arts of Design, a most entertaining book to the general reader, and a deeply interesting one, we should think, to the artist.] "But this painter!" cried Walter Ludlow, with animation. "He not only excels in his peculiar art, but possesses vast acquirements in all other learning and science. He talks Hebrew with Dr. Mather, and gives lectures in anatomy to Dr. Boylston. In a word, he will meet the best instructed man among us, on his own ground. Moreover, he is a polished gentleman, a citizen of the world, yes, a true cosmopolite; for he will speak like a native of each clime and country on the globe, except our own forests, whither he is now going. Nor is all this what I most admire in him." "Indeed!" said Elinor, who had listened with a woman's interest to the description of such a man. "Yet this is admirable enough." "Surely it is," replied her lover, "but far less so than his natural gift of adapting himself to every variety of character, insomuch that all men and all women too, Elinor shall find a mirror of themselves in this wonderful painter. But the greatest wonder is yet to be told... Continue reading book >>

The Prophetic Pictures (From "Twice Told Tales") By: Nathaniel Hawthorne (1804-1864)

"The Prophetic Pictures" is a captivating short story collection by Nathaniel Hawthorne that showcases his brilliant storytelling abilities and unique perspective on human nature. Though not as widely known as his other works, this collection is a hidden gem that deserves greater recognition.

Hawthorne's exquisite writing style and vivid descriptions immediately draw readers into each story. The prose is eloquent and evocative, setting the stage for the mysterious and often eerie events that unfold. The author's ability to create a haunting atmosphere is truly remarkable, leaving readers on the edge of their seats throughout.

One of the standout tales in this collection is the titular "Prophetic Pictures." Hawthorne explores the themes of art, destiny, and the power of perception in this thought-provoking story. The protagonist's encounter with a series of ever-changing portraits that foretell the future is both fascinating and unsettling. Hawthorne masterfully intertwines supernatural elements with moral dilemmas, forcing readers to question the limits of human knowledge and the consequences of tampering with fate.

Another notable story is "The Haunted Mind," which delves into the inner darkness that lurks within the human psyche. Through a compelling narrative, Hawthorne explores the dualities of good and evil, sanity and madness, and the fragile line that separates them. The haunting imagery and psychological introspection present in this story make it a standout among the collection.

Hawthorne's characters are expertly crafted, each with their own unique motivations and flaws. Whether it is the tormented artist in "The Prophetic Pictures" or the deeply troubled protagonist of "The Haunted Mind," these characters come to life on the page, eliciting a range of emotions from readers.

One of the strengths of "The Prophetic Pictures" lies in its ability to provoke introspection and reflection. Hawthorne's stories often contain subtle moral lessons, encouraging readers to examine their own actions and beliefs. This collection serves as a reminder that even the most ordinary individuals can be touched by extraordinary circumstances, leading to transformative experiences.

While the book does have some slower moments, overall, "The Prophetic Pictures" is a riveting collection that showcases Hawthorne's utmost literary finesse. With its enchanting narratives and profound themes, this book immerses readers in a world where reality intertwines with the supernatural. It is a testament to Hawthorne's enduring talent and an enthralling addition to his impressive body of work.

First Page:

TWICE TOLD TALES

THE PROPHETIC PICTURES

By Nathaniel Hawthorne

[This story was suggested by an anecdote of Stuart, related in Dunlap's History of the Arts of Design, a most entertaining book to the general reader, and a deeply interesting one, we should think, to the artist.]

"But this painter!" cried Walter Ludlow, with animation. "He not only excels in his peculiar art, but possesses vast acquirements in all other learning and science. He talks Hebrew with Dr. Mather, and gives lectures in anatomy to Dr. Boylston. In a word, he will meet the best instructed man among us, on his own ground. Moreover, he is a polished gentleman, a citizen of the world, yes, a true cosmopolite; for he will speak like a native of each clime and country on the globe, except our own forests, whither he is now going. Nor is all this what I most admire in him."

"Indeed!" said Elinor, who had listened with a woman's interest to the description of such a man. "Yet this is admirable enough."

"Surely it is," replied her lover, "but far less so than his natural gift of adapting himself to every variety of character, insomuch that all men and all women too, Elinor shall find a mirror of themselves in this wonderful painter. But the greatest wonder is yet to be told... Continue reading book >>

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Wikipedia – Nathaniel Hawthorne
Wikipedia – The Prophetic Pictures (From "Twice Told Tales")

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