Benjamin Franklin Norris, Jr. was een Amerikaanse romanschrijver die voornamelijk in het naturalistisch genre schreef. Zijn werk worstelt met het idee van de beschaafde mens die zijn innerlijke beest of dierlijke neigingen overwint. Diep beïnvloed door het darwinisme en de filosofische verdedigingen ervan, ontwikkelde Norris een uniek, zij het vaak verward, soort sociaal darwinisme. Zijn schrijven droeg ook de invloed van vroege criminologen en Franse naturalisten in zich, waarbij de botsing tussen maatschappelijke vooruitgang en primaire instincten werd onderzocht.
The book is a reproduction of a historical work, presented in large print format to enhance accessibility for individuals with impaired vision. Published by Megali, which focuses on making historical texts more readable, this edition aims to preserve the original content while ensuring it is easier to read.
Exploring the future of human colonization on Mars, the book outlines the practicalities of relocating to the Red Planet using SpaceX's reusable Starship rocket. It details the necessary infrastructure and the pioneering lifestyle that awaits settlers, emphasizing the blend of adventure and comfort. The author presents a realistic vision, asserting that within the next two decades, thousands will embark on this unprecedented journey to establish a new life beyond Earth. This narrative combines visionary concepts with tangible plans for space exploration.
The collection features a powerful exploration of commodity trading through "A Deal in Wheat," which critiques the ruthless speculation affecting farmers and laborers. Alongside this title story, Norris presents various narratives that illuminate the struggles of ranchers and pioneers in the West, highlighting the era's social and economic dynamics. His vivid storytelling captures the spirit of the American frontier, showcasing the complexities of human nature and the challenges faced in a rapidly changing landscape. Norris's keen observations solidify his significance in American literature.
Set against the backdrop of corporate greed and betrayal, a group of wheat farmers faces a ruthless railway company that reneges on a promise to sell them land after a decade of labor. As tensions escalate, the farmers find themselves embroiled in a violent struggle for their rights, highlighting themes of power dynamics and the exploitation of the vulnerable. The story unfolds as a gripping confrontation that reveals the darker side of economic ambition and the lengths to which corporations will go to maintain control.
Focusing on the corruption and greed of corporate monopolies, this work by Benjamin Franklin Norris, Jr. resonates with themes relevant to both his time and today. His exploration of societal issues mirrors the impactful narratives of his contemporary, Upton Sinclair, making his writing compelling and thought-provoking over a century later. The book offers a critical examination of the economic landscape of the late 19th and early 20th centuries, showcasing Norris's keen insights into the struggles against corporate power.
