The Upper Berth and By the Waters of Paradise (Esprios Classics)
A collection of two supernatural stories by American author F Marion Crawford set in Italy.
Crawford established himself as a notable figure in weird fiction after the immediate success of Mr Isaacs. His work often mingled Anglo-Indian life with Oriental mystery. By 1883, he had already produced Dr Claudius. He chose to live permanently in Sant'Agnello, where Villa Renzi became his home. This volume captures that specific period of his literary output. It reflects the influence of his Tuscan birth and Italian residence on his storytelling style. The inclusion of By the Waters of Paradise alongside The Upper Berth provides a focused study of his narrative techniques during this era.
Crawford lived in Italy from 1883 onward, staying at Hotel Cocumella in Sorrento in 1885. He bought Villa Renzi in Sant'Agnello that fall. His work reflects this permanent move from his birthplace in Bagni di Lucca to his final Italian home.
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Readers seeking authentic late nineteenth-century supernatural fiction will find this collection a valuable addition to their shelves, particularly those intrigued by the intersection of Anglo-Indian life and Oriental mystery. Fans of F Marion Crawford’s established reputation for blending modern settings with eerie atmospheres will appreciate the direct presentation of his narrative techniques without modern interference. The volume is ideal for scholars or enthusiasts studying the evolution of weird fiction during the post-David Copperfield era, offering a focused study on how Italian residence influenced storytelling style. It appeals to those who prefer atmospheric depth over contemporary shock value, providing a window into Crawford’s immediate success following Dr Claudius and his unique ability to merge biographical context with speculative horror.
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This volume serves as a focused study of F Marion Crawford’s narrative techniques during a pivotal era in his career. By collecting The Upper Berth and By the Waters of Paradise, it highlights how his Tuscan birth and permanent Italian residence shaped his atmospheric style. The text presents these stories without additional commentary, allowing the original late nineteenth-century voice to remain intact. It suits fans of Gothic tales who appreciate specific European locations grounding their supernatural experiences. While it may not appeal to those seeking contemporary horror or non-fiction, it offers a direct look at early career success. The lack of modern framing preserves the historical integrity of the weird fiction tradition, making it a relevant resource for understanding the period's literary landscape and Crawford’s unique blend of mystery and setting.
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