Last Days in a Dutch Hotel (from Literature and Life)

Format:

Book

Author/Creator:

Howells, William Dean, 1837-1920

Language:

English

Physical Description:

1 online resource : multiple file formats

Place of Publication:

Salt Lake City, UT : Project Gutenberg,

Summary:

"Last Days in a Dutch Hotel (from Literature and Life)" by William Dean Howells is a reflective narrative written in the late 19th century. This work can be categorized as a travelogue or personal essay that conveys the author's experiences while staying at a hotel in Scheveningen, a seaside resort in the Netherlands, during the transition from summer to autumn. The text encapsulates themes of human connection, cultural observations, and the contemplative nature of travel, particularly as it relates to the changing seasons and the fleeting nature of hospitality. In this account, Howells observes the gradual winding down of the hotel season as guests begin to leave, marking a poignant contrast between the crowded summer days and the encroaching desolation of autumn. Through his interactions with fellow guests, including a charming German family and the fleeting presence of Dutch royalty, the author reflects on the transient relationships formed during his stay. He also contrasts the European hospitality experience with that of American hotels, emphasizing the comforting yet melancholic atmosphere of the Dutch seaside establishment as it prepares for winter. Ultimately, "Last Days in a Dutch Hotel" provides a window into Howells' contemplative journey, characterized by his appreciation for the local culture and the bittersweet nature of farewells. (This is an automatically generated summary.)

Credits:

Produced by David Widger

Notes:

Reading ease score: 62.9 (8th & 9th grade). Neither easy nor difficult to read.

Release date is 2002-08-01