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Biography & Autobiography Personal Memoirs

Hammered by the Waves

A Young Frenchman's Sojourn in Newfoundland in 1882-83

edited by Robin McGrath

by (author) Henri de la Chaume

translated by James McGrath

Publisher
Creative Book Publishing
Initial publish date
May 2010
Category
Personal Memoirs, General
  • Paperback / softback

    ISBN
    9781897174548
    Publish Date
    May 2010
    List Price
    $5.00

Classroom Resources

Where to buy it

Out of print

This edition is not currently available in bookstores. Check your local library or search for used copies at Abebooks.

Description

Published first in 1884, Henri de la Chaume's charming account of his sojourn in Newfoundland appears here for the first time in English. A mere twenty years of age when he came to the colony, de la Chaume gives a unique and unusual perspective on the politics, geography and social life of the bustling port of St. John's. The translation is "a fresh and vibrant piece of writing in its own right," and the introduction brings new insight into the life of the young trade attache. Key selling points: The book gives the French perspective on Newfoundland history, but it also outlines the social life of young Newfoundlanders of the late 19th century, with particular attention to the lives and mores of its young women. De la Chaume brings an artist's eye, a poet's sensibilities, and a keen sense of humour to his observations. The difference between European customs and the informality of the new world particularly appealed to the young Frenchman and he gives us vivid descriptions of the parties, excursions and entertainments available in the capital at that time.

About the authors

Robin McGrath is the author or editor of fifteen books, including Trouble and Desire (1995), Escaped Domestics (1998), Hoist Your Sails and Run (1999), Donovan's Station (2002),Covenant of Salt (2005), and Livyers World(2007).  She has published over two hundred pieces in magazines such as Beaver, Inuit Art Quarterly, Parchment, TickleAce, Fiddlehead and Room of One's Own

 

She is an occasional contributer to CBC Radio, has written and narrated three video scripts, had her first play staged in 2002, and is currently the non-fiction columnist for the St. John's newspaper The Telegram.

 

Robin was born in Newfoundland and lives in Labrador with her husband, provincial court judge, John Joy.  She is a member of The Writers Union of Canada and the Letterset Association of Newfoundland and Labrador.

Robin McGrath's profile page

Henri de la Chaume's profile page

James McGrath has worked for George H.W. Bush since 1991, at the White House, as his postpresidential spokesman, and currently as his speechwriter. Arthur Milnes, a journalist and fellow of the Queen's University Centre for the Study of Democracy, serve

James McGrath's profile page

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