Francis Hopkinson Smith 
Fiddles 
1909

In Francis Hopkinson Smith’s ’Fiddles’, the reader is taken on a journey through the backwater towns of the American South, exploring the lives of the locals and their unique ways of making a living. The book is written in a descriptive and lively style, capturing the essence of a bygone era with vivid imagery and authentic dialect. Smith’s attention to detail allows the reader to fully immerse themselves in the world he creates, making ’Fiddles’ a compelling read for those interested in historical fiction. The novel also delves into themes of community, resilience, and the power of music to connect people across different backgrounds and circumstances. Francis Hopkinson Smith drew inspiration for ’Fiddles’ from his own experiences traveling through the southern United States, where he encountered fascinating characters and stories that stayed with him. His background as an engineer and artist lends a unique perspective to his writing, infusing his narratives with both technical precision and creative flair. Smith’s dedication to preserving the stories of ordinary people shines through in ’Fiddles’, making it a valuable addition to the literary landscape. I highly recommend ’Fiddles’ to readers who appreciate richly detailed historical fiction, authentic character portrayals, and poignant explorations of community and music. Smith’s masterful storytelling will transport you to a different time and place, leaving you with a deep appreciation for the human spirit and its ability to endure.

Om författaren

Francis Hopkinson Smith (1838-1915) was an American author, artist, and engineer, whose eclectic talents made him a notable figure in late 19th and early 20th century literature and arts. Born in Baltimore, Maryland, Smith was also a descendant of Francis Hopkinson, one of the signers of the Declaration of Independence. Smith’s literary output includes a number of novels, short stories, and travel writings, characterized by a charming and often romantic depiction of old-world manners and settings, alongside a quintessential American optimism and ingenuity.

One of his lesser-known works, ’Fiddles’ demonstrates Smith’s capacity for capturing the intricacies of human emotion and the quaint charm of his characters. While perhaps not as famous as ’The Fortunes of Oliver Horn’ (1902) or ’Colonel Carter of Cartersville’ (1891), ’Fiddles’ exemplifies Smith’s narrative style that combines gentle humor with poignant observation, typifying the author’s broader contribution to American pre-modernist literature. More scholarly work on Smith’s oeuvre could elucidate the influence of his writing on both the cultural milieu of his time and the development of regional American literary styles. His engineering background also sometimes infused his works with technical precision and a deep appreciation for the practical creativity inherent in American invention and industry.