Urban Sketches by Bret Harte
QR code
"Urban Sketches" by Bret Harte is a collection of essays and narrative vignettes written during the late 19th century. The work captures various aspects of urban life in San Francisco, with a particular focus on the whimsical and humorous observations of the author. The stories range from interactions with peculiar characters, such as a comically perceived “venerable impostor,” to depictions of unique incidents that arise within the city's neighborhoods, each painting a
vivid portrait of life and social nuances during this period. The opening of "Urban Sketches" introduces us to the character referred to as a "Venerable Impostor," depicted humorously through the lens of an observer who remains fascinated and bemused by the old man's antics and mysterious background. The narrator describes his experiences interacting with this character, who is both child-like and otherworldly, evoking a sense of nostalgia and reflecting on the absurdities found in the everyday. Following this segment, the tone shifts with observations from a balcony, showcasing the rich tapestry of urban life filled with music, youthful romances, and social interactions, all underscored by Harte's sharp wit and keen insight into human behavior. This introduction sets the stage for a series of interconnected sketches, inviting readers to immerse themselves in the whimsical atmosphere of Victorian San Francisco. (This is an automatically generated summary.)
Download for free
For your e-reader or reading app — Kindle, Kobo, Apple Books, Calibre etc.
Kindle → Use Send-to-Kindle
Kobo, Nook etc → Transfer via USB
Phone, tablet or computer → Open in a reading app
Other formats & older devices
There may be more files related to this item.
About this eBook
| Author | Harte, Bret, 1836-1902 |
|---|---|
| Title | Urban Sketches |
| Contents | A venerable impostor -- From a balcony -- Melons -- Surprising adventures of Master Charles Summerton -- Sidewalkings -- A boy's dog -- Charitable reminiscences -- "Seeing the steamer off" -- Neighborhoods I have moved from -- My suburban residence -- On a vulgar little boy -- Waiting for the ship. |
| Credits | Produced by Donald Lainson and David Widger |
| Reading Level | Reading ease score: 55.4 (10th to 12th grade). Somewhat difficult to read. |
| Language | English |
| LoC Class | PS: Language and Literatures: American and Canadian literature |
| Subject | Short stories |
| Subject | American fiction -- 19th century |
| Category | Text |
| eBook-No. | 2598 |
| Release Date | May 22, 2006 |
| Last Update | Jan 27, 2021 |
| Copyright | Public domain in the USA. |
| Downloads | 647 downloads in the last 30 days. |
Project Gutenberg eBooks are always free!