Life on the Mississippi (eBook)

Mark Twain, the pen name of Samuel Langhorne Clemens, was an iconic American writer, humorist, entrepreneur, publisher, and lecturer. Born on November 30, 1835, in Florida, Missouri, Twain grew up in Hannibal, a town on the Mississippi River, which later became the setting for some of his most famous works. Twain began his career as a typesetter and later became a riverboat pilot on the Mississippi River before turning to journalism and writing. He ascended to literary prominence with the publication of 'The Adventures of Tom Sawyer' (1876) and 'Adventures of Huckleberry Finn' (1885), dubbed the 'Great American Novel.' His rich and varied works often include vibrant depictions of the antebellum South, biting social commentary, and unparalleled wit. 'Life on the Mississippi' (1883) is a memoir by Twain, detailing his experiences as a young riverboat pilot and providing an evocative history of the river and the changes it underwent. This book combines his unique narrative style with travelogue and autobiography, painting a comprehensive picture of both the geographic and sociological landscape of the Mississippi corridor. Twain's literary style combined rich humor, sturdy narrative, and social criticism, making him one of the most widely read and beloved writers in American literature. His ability to weave the colloquial language of America into tales that speak to the broader human condition ensures that his works continue to be celebrated well beyond his passing on April 21, 1910.