Van Bibber and Others

"Van Bibber and Others" by Richard Harding Davis is a collection of short stories published during the late 19th century. The stories center on young Van Bibber, a well-to-do socialite navigating the complexities of life, love, and social expectations among a circle of friends and acquaintances. The opening of the collection introduces readers to the bustling world of theater on the first night of a comic opera, as Van Bibber arrives backstage. The scene is charged with excitement and anxiety, highlighting the contrasts between the performers' struggles and Van Bibber's calm demeanor. He interacts with various characters, including the prima donna and the stage manager, establishing his role as an observer with a keen understanding of the theatrical life around him. As he takes a genuine interest in the youngest child performer, the "Littlest Girl," Van Bibber's protective instincts emerge, hinting at deeper themes of responsibility and care that will weave through the stories. (This is an automatically generated summary.)

Richard Harding Davis was an American journalist and writer of fiction and drama, known foremost as the first American war correspondent to cover the Spanish–American War, the Second Boer War, and World War I. His writing greatly assisted the political career of Theodore Roosevelt. He also played a major role in the evolution of the American magazine. His influence extended to the world of fashion, and he is credited with making the clean-shaven look popular among men at the turn of the 20th century.