John Barleycorn

Wrestling with the disease of alcoholism for most of his life, Jack London tells all in his autobiography John Barleycorn. Beginning with a discussion of the prohibition movement and its effects, London explores the ways that alcohol affects daily life in the Victorian era. Because there were not many forms of affordable entertainment or reliable communication, bars were the perfect spot for social activity. People were able to sit and drink, enjoying themselves while hearing the gossip and news from the other townspeople. However, this social practice can quickly deteriorate into a disease that infects every aspect of life, damaging those at home, threatening financial security, and even risking their safety. From personal experience, London explains what being an alcoholic is like with stories of humor and shame delivered with sharp accuracy. While doing so, John Barleycorn includes tales of London’s interesting and numerous careers, such his time as a sailor, oyster pirate, and gold miner. Set to the vivid backdrop of the California Bay Area, he discloses his wildest stories and paints a portrait of his stomping grounds. Featuring themes of masculinity and friendship, John Barleycorn possesses a duality of lauding the social power of alcohol while warning against falling for its addictive qualities. The fine line between enjoying a drink and struggling alcoholism is characterized in clear prose and demonstrative narratives as London both brags about and laments his personal experiences with the substance.


Employing thoughtful, honest, and exceptional prose, Jack London’s John Barleycorn made a debut as one of the first intelligent and empathetic narratives about alcoholism. With both emotional and historical significance, London explores the unfortunately common disease while also explaining the cultural impact of alcohol in the 19th century, bleeding even to modern times. Both original and profound, John Barleycorn has earned a reputation for leaving audiences stunned by its emotional and frank narrative.


This edition of Jack London’s John Barleycorn features a new, eye-catching cover design and a readable, stylish font, crafting a perfect and approachable experience for the modern reader.