The very Good Man by Edgar Wallace
In a remote African setting, a white man named John Silwick Aliston arrives in a village, where he encounters B'firi, a young woman who has outlived three husbands. The village chief presents her to Aliston, suggesting that her past may be linked to witchcraft. B'firi, however, seeks a new life and decides to convert to Christianity, eventually becoming a lay preacher. Aliston, who is disillusioned and struggling with his own demons, finds solace in her company, leading to their marriage performed by a missionary who disregards racial boundaries. Aliston's life spirals downward as he grapples with his identity and the consequences of his choices. He becomes increasingly dependent on alcohol, and his marriage to B'firi is marked by his self-pity and regret. Meanwhile, the local authorities, particularly Commissioner Sanders, become aware of Aliston's situation and seek to intervene, viewing his mixed marriage as a violation of colonial norms. As Aliston's behavior deteriorates, he disappears into the wilderness, where he becomes embroiled in criminal activities, including theft and violence. His actions lead to tragic consequences, culminating in his arrest and impending execution for murder. B'firi, meanwhile, is left to navigate her own path, ultimately remarrying a wealthy chief after Aliston's disappearance. The narrative explores themes of colonialism, identity, and the complexities of interracial relationships in a colonial context. It highlights the struggles of individuals caught between cultural expectations and personal desires, ultimately leading to a tragic conclusion for Aliston, who dies alone and forgotten, while B'firi finds a new life, albeit one that reflects the harsh realities of her environment. The story serves as a critique of colonial attitudes and the often devastating impact of cultural clashes.
By Edgar Wallace · First published 1921 · Genre: Literary Fiction, Adventure, Drama · 7,170 words
First lines
The spectacle of a white man going native may be romantic -- it is largely a question of locality and the imaginative faculties of his biographer. In the islands that stud the smiling seas, in a setting that may consist largely of smelly copra, but can as easily be "masked in" by garlands of frangipane, a man may take to himself an olive-skinned mama and excite no more than amused contempt amongst his decent fellows. But in Africa.
B'firi, the Christian woman, was young and comely. She had been the owner of three husbands, each of whom had loved her and died. After the third death the chief of her village held her for Sanders.
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The very Good Man is listed on Textopian as a novel by Edgar Wallace, dated 1921 CE.
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- Work type: Novel
- Author: Edgar Wallace
- Date: 1921 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Literary Fiction, Adventure, Drama, Romance, Colonial Literature
- Length: 7,170 words
- Structure: 1 section, 208 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Standard (8th-9th Grade)
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Discussion starters
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Genres
- Literary Fiction — The book explores complex themes of identity, culture, and morality through character development and narrative depth.
- Adventure — The setting in Africa and the protagonist's experiences reflect elements of adventure and exploration.
- Drama — The emotional conflicts and interpersonal relationships drive the narrative, showcasing dramatic elements.
- Romance — The relationship between B'firi and John Silwick Aliston introduces romantic themes and conflicts.
Tags
mystery · crime · suspense · thriller · detective · moral dilemmas · justice · human nature · deception · redemption · intrigue · plot twists