A Bit of Wood by Algernon Blackwood

Name: A Bit of Wood
Author: Algernon Blackwood

A Bit of Wood by Algernon Blackwood is a novella that explores the themes of isolation, loneliness, and the human psyche. The story follows a man named Mr. Jones, who has recently lost his wife and is struggling to cope with his grief. In an attempt to distract himself from his sorrow, Mr. Jones purchases a small plot of woodland and sets out to build a cabin in the middle of it. As he works on the cabin, Mr. Jones becomes increasingly obsessed with the forest and its mysterious qualities. He begins to feel a deep connection to the land and the creatures that inhabit it, and he finds solace in the peace and quiet of his isolated surroundings. However, as the story progresses, Mr. Jones becomes aware of an eerie presence lurking just beyond the edge of the forest, and he begins to question his own sanity. Throughout the novella, Blackwood employs a subtle and atmospheric writing style that creates a sense of unease and foreboding. The author's use of imagery and symbolism adds depth and complexity to the story, making it a thought-provoking and unsettling read. Overall, A Bit of Wood is a haunting exploration of the human experience and the power of nature to shape our lives.

By Algernon Blackwood · First published 1908 · Genre: Fiction, Mystery, Horror · 2,324 words

First lines

He found himself in Meran with some cousins who had various slight ailments, but, being rich and imaginative, had gone to a sanatorium to be cured. But for its sanatoria, Meran might be a cheerful place; their ubiquity reminds a healthy man too often that the air is really good. Being well enough himself, except for a few mental worries, he went to a Gasthaus in the neighbourhood. In the sanatorium his cousins complained bitterly of the food, the ignorant "sisters," the inattentive doctors, and the idiotic regulations generally which proves that people should not go to a sanatorium unless they are really ill. However, they paid heavily for being there, so felt that something was being accomplished, and were annoyed when he called each day for tea, and told them cheerfully how much better they looked which proved, again, that their ailments were slight and quite curable by the local doctor at home. With one of the ailing cousins, a rich and pretty girl, he believed himself in love.

What this Textopian page supports

A Bit of Wood is listed on Textopian as a short story by Algernon Blackwood, dated 1908 CE.

This source record anchors work identity, reading entry points, and catalog context for checking claims about the work.

Work type: Short story
Author: Algernon Blackwood
Date: 1908 CE
Language: English
Genres: Fiction, Mystery, Horror, Supernatural
Length: 2,324 words
Structure: 1 section, 13 paragraphs
Reading fit: Fairly Easy (7th Grade)

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Similar titles

Genres

Fiction — Product of the author's imagination and not based on fact.
Mystery — Algernon Blackwood was known for his works of mystery.
Horror — Blackwood's works often had elements of the supernatural and horror.
Supernatural — Blackwood's works often revolved around encounters with the supernatural.