T. S. Arthur 
Ten Nights in a Bar Room 

T. S. Arthur’s ‘Ten Nights in a Bar Room’ is a poignant and morally charged novel that delves into the perils of alcoholism and its devastating effects on individuals and their families. This cautionary tale, written in a straightforward and accessible literary style, was originally published in the mid-19th century and is considered a foundational work in temperance literature. The narrative follows the lives of a group of men who frequent a local tavern, showcasing the gradual decline of their personal and social lives due to their excessive drinking habits. Arthur’s vivid descriptions and realistic character portrayals bring the issues of addiction and societal decay to life, making this book a powerful testament to the destructive nature of alcoholism. T. S. Arthur, a prominent American author and social activist, was known for his moralistic and didactic writing style. His own experiences with witnessing the damaging effects of alcoholism likely inspired him to pen this influential work, which continues to resonate with readers to this day. ‘Ten Nights in a Bar Room’ is a timeless classic that serves as a poignant reminder of the consequences of excessive drinking and the importance of temperance, making it a must-read for anyone interested in exploring the complexities of addiction and morality.

About the author

Timothy Shay Arthur, known professionally as T. S. Arthur, was an American author of the nineteenth century, with his works focusing primarily on themes of temperance and the trials and tribulations of everyday life. Born on June 6, 1809, in New York City, Arthur’s literary career spanned several decades, during which he penned more than 150 novels and numerous short stories. His most renowned work, ‘Ten Nights in a Bar Room and What I Saw There’ (1854), is a temperance novel that vividly illustrates the dangers of alcoholism and the impact of drinking on individuals, families, and communities. This particular novel was a significant contribution to the temperance movement and became one of the bestselling novels of the nineteenth century. Arthur’s writing style is characterized by its didactic tone and moralistic themes, aiming to promote better societal values and personal conduct. In addition to his literary pursuits, Arthur was also known for his editorship at various periodicals, where he had an additional platform to advocate for social reform and temperance. He passed away on March 6, 1885, leaving behind a legacy as a key figure in the literature of social reform of his time.