Wrestling with the disease of alcoholism for most of his life, Jack
London tells all in his autobiography John Barleycorn. Beginning
with a discussion of the prohibition movement and its effects,
London explores the ways that alcohol affects daily life in the
Victorian era. Because there were not many forms of affordable
entertainment or reliable communication, bars were the perfect spot
for social activity. People were able to sit and drink, enjoying
themselves while hearing the gossip and news from the other
townspeople. However, this social practice can quickly deteriorate
into a disease that infects every aspect of life, damaging those at
home, threatening financial security, and even risking their
safety. From personal experience, London explains what being an
alcoholic is like with stories of humor and shame delivered with
sharp accuracy. While doing so, John Barleycorn includes tales of
London's interesting and numerous careers, such his time as a
sailor, oyster pirate, and gold miner. Set to the vivid backdrop of
the California Bay Area, he discloses his wildest stories and
paints a portrait of his stomping grounds. Featuring themes of
masculinity and friendship, John Barleycorn possesses a duality of
lauding the social power of alcohol while warning against falling
for its addictive qualities. The fine line between enjoying a drink
and struggling alcoholism is characterized in clear prose and
demonstrative narratives as London both brags about and laments his
personal experiences with the substance. Employing thoughtful,
honest, and exceptional prose, Jack London's John Barleycorn made a
debut as one of the first intelligent and empathetic narratives
about alcoholism. With both emotional and historical significance,
London explores the unfortunately common disease while also
explaining the cultural impact of alcohol in the 19th century,
bleeding even to modern times. Both original and profound, John
Barleycorn has earned a reputation for leaving audiences stunned by
its emotional and frank narrative. This edition of Jack London's
John Barleycorn features a new, eye-catching cover design and a
readable, stylish font, crafting a perfect and approachable
experience for the modern reader.
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