Afloat and Ashore: A Sea Tale

"Afloat and Ashore: A Sea Tale" by James Fenimore Cooper is a novel written during the early 19th century. The narrative revolves around Miles Wallingford, the protagonist, as he embarks on a journey influenced by his maritime heritage, grappling with his desires and societal expectations after the losses in his family. As he contemplates his future, he is drawn to the sea, reflecting on the legacy of a father who was both a sailor and a man of integrity. The opening of the story establishes an intimate look into Miles's childhood, detailing how his father's experiences as a sailor during the American Revolution shape their family dynamic. It recounts poignant moments of grief following the deaths of both parents, emphasizing emotional connections to his upbringing in Clawbonny, the family farm. Struggling with the responsibilities of adulthood and the pull of adventure, Miles expresses a longing for the seafaring life, leading to an impulsive decision to leave home with his friend Rupert. The narrative unfolds with vivid descriptions of their departure, mingled with nostalgia and excitement, setting the stage for the adventures that await them on the high seas. (This is an automatically generated summary.)

James Fenimore Cooper was an American writer of the first half of the 19th century, whose historical romances depicting colonial and indigenous characters from the 17th to the 19th centuries brought him fame and fortune. He lived much of his boyhood and his last fifteen years in Cooperstown, New York, which was founded by his father William Cooper on property that he owned. Cooper became a member of the Episcopal Church shortly before his death and contributed generously to it. He attended Yale University for three years, where he was a member of the Linonian Society.