A throng of bearded men, in sad-colored garments, and gray, steeple-crowned hats, intermixed with women, some wearing hoods and others bareheaded, was assembled in front of a wooden edifice, the door of which was heavily timbered with oak, and studded with iron spikes. (Published 1850)I love the classics and plan to share some "opening lines" over the coming months. Comment if you like, or read for inspiration. Writing styles were different then, but were they really?
Another great opening line, Thanks for sharing,
ReplyDeleteYvonne.
Appreciate the visit, Yvonne. Thanks!
DeleteI think I read this one long ago, when I was in Year 11 at school, but not since. I was into Puritans at the time because I had a juicy role in the school production of The Crucible. But I can't for the life of me recall what that wooden edifice was...
ReplyDeleteOh, wow that would have been an amazing role at age 11. Probably time to read again, huh.
DeleteHated this book in high school. Loved it 20 years later when reading it in grad school.
ReplyDeleteI think I must have too. No fond memories at all, but boy did I love Hawthorne later in college. Must be an age thing :)
DeletePeriodically I re-read this book, which I liked the first time I read it in college. It's such a great example of writing that moves a story forward while unveiling character, all the way through. Glad you chose this one.
ReplyDeleteHe was such a good writer and his stories so engaging. Definitely a favorite of mine too :)
DeleteI've read it a couple of times and should again. I love his short stories.
ReplyDeleteI mean I love his short stories, as well as his novels (at least "Scarlet Letter" and House of the Seven Gables").
DeleteI'm a fan of his short stories too. Discovered Hawthorne in college and really enjoyed his style and everything I read.
DeleteGreat book and what an opening line! It really captures the spirit of this book
ReplyDeleteHi Birgit. I read this in high school, and really didn't appreciate. Loved Hawthorne in college years later. Would be fun to read again.
DeleteThis is one of my favorite books. Don't watch the movie...your eyes will burn.
ReplyDeleteHmm....don't recall seeing a movie, but must have somewhere. This is a popular story. As I said above, I really need to read again. Thanks for stopping by, Cherdo.
DeleteI know it's not action, but that's quite a strong opening, in my opinion :-)
ReplyDeleteWhich begs the question. Should the opening to a novel be action for the best effect? I don't think so, even in an an action/adventure novel. I prefer a slower setup, but maybe that's just me. I love the visual in this opening. Thanks for commenting, Sarah.
ReplyDeleteThat gives you the chills and you know those characters are in for some hard times.
ReplyDeleteLove his description. Really sets the stage, as you say. Thanks Lee.
ReplyDelete