The Seven Vagabonds (From "Twice Told Tales")   By: Nathaniel Hawthorne (1804-1864)

The Seven Vagabonds is a mesmerizing collection of short stories from the renowned author Nathaniel Hawthorne. Presented in the book "Twice Told Tales," this particular story stands out as a captivating and thought-provoking masterpiece.

The plot of The Seven Vagabonds is intricately woven and tells the tale of a group of wandering individuals who find solace in each other's company. Set in a quiet New England town, the vagabonds become unlikely heroes during a harsh winter storm. Hawthorne skillfully crafts the characters with vivid descriptions and a nuanced understanding of human nature.

One of the remarkable aspects of this story is Hawthorne's ability to interweave social commentary into the narrative. He addresses themes of poverty, prejudice, and judgment without being overly didactic. Through the Seven Vagabonds, he highlights the inherent dignity and humanity that resides in all individuals, regardless of their circumstances.

Hawthorne's writing style in The Seven Vagabonds is enchanting and evocative. His prose transports the reader to a bygone era, immersing them in the beauty of the New England landscape. The author's attention to detail, combined with his lyrical language, creates a rich and vivid reading experience.

The characterization in this story is superb. Each of the vagabonds is uniquely crafted, with their own distinct personalities and backgrounds. Hawthorne expertly explores their motivations, fears, and desires, making them relatable and compelling to the reader. Despite their societal status, he emphasizes their humanity, making the audience question preconceived notions and prejudices they may hold against marginalized individuals.

Within this short story, Hawthorne masterfully captures the essence of the human experience. Through the wanderings of the Seven Vagabonds, he explores themes of compassion, kindness, and the search for belonging. These universal themes resonate deeply with readers and leave a lasting impression.

Overall, The Seven Vagabonds is a thought-provoking and beautifully written story that showcases Nathaniel Hawthorne's literary genius. It will captivate readers with its engaging plot, well-developed characters, and insightful social commentary. Whether a fan of Hawthorne's works or new to his writing, this story is a must-read for those seeking a profound and evocative literary experience.

First Page:

Rambling on foot in the spring of my life and the summer of the year, I came one afternoon to a point which gave me the choice of three directions. Straight before me, the main road extended its dusty length to Boston; on the left a branch went towards the sea, and would have lengthened my journey a trifle of twenty or thirty miles; while by the right hand path, I might have gone over hills and lakes to Canada, visiting in my way the celebrated town of Stamford. On a level spot of grass, at the foot of the guidepost, appeared an object, which, though locomotive on a different principle, reminded me of Gulliver's portable mansion among the Brobdignags. It was a huge covered wagon, or, more properly, a small house on wheels, with a door on one side and a window shaded by green blinds on the other. Two horses, munching provender out of the baskets which muzzled them, were fastened near the vehicle: a delectable sound of music proceeded from the interior; and I immediately conjectured that this was some itinerant show, halting at the confluence of the roads to intercept such idle travellers as myself. A shower had long been climbing up the western sky, and now hung so blackly over my onward path that it was a point of wisdom to seek shelter here... Continue reading book >>