In an Unknown Prision Land

Name: In an Unknown Prision Land
Author: George Griffith

The narrative unfolds aboard a transatlantic voyage, where passengers grapple with the impending scrutiny of American customs upon arrival. Tension mounts as travelers fill out detailed declarations regarding their belongings, revealing the complexities of navigating customs regulations. The protagonist observes the absurdity of the process, noting the disparity between the treatment of affluent passengers and the rigorous enforcement of duties. Amidst the chaos, he encounters a fellow traveler who shares insights on smuggling, highlighting a common practice among the elite to evade customs fees. Upon reaching New York, the protagonist experiences the stark contrast between the city's opulence and the squalor of its outskirts. He reflects on the American obsession with money, encapsulated in the phrase "Land of the Dollar." As he embarks on a cross-country train journey, he engages in conversations that reveal the efficiency and comfort of American rail travel compared to British standards. The protagonist learns about the economic advantages of American railroads and the kindness of strangers, exemplified by a fellow passenger who assists him in securing a berth for his onward journey. The narrative captures the essence of American society, marked by a blend of ambition, hospitality, and the relentless pursuit of wealth.

By George Griffith · First published 1894 · Genre: Adventure, Travel, Historical · 19 chapters · 69,716 words

First lines

It was on the fifth night out from Southampton that the threatening shadow of the American Custom House began to fall over the company in the saloon.

One could see ladies talking nervously together. The subject was the one most dear to the female heart; but the pleasure of talking about "things" was mingled-at least in the hearts of the uninitiated-with an uneasiness which, in not a few cases, amounted to actual fear; for that evening certain forms had been distributed by the purser, and these forms contained questions calculated to search out the inmost secret of every dress-basket and Saratoga trunk on board.

What this Textopian page supports

In an Unknown Prision Land is listed on Textopian as a novel by George Griffith, dated 1894 CE.

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

Work type: Novel
Author: George Griffith
Date: 1894 CE
Language: English
Genres: Adventure, Travel, Historical, Fiction
Length: 69,716 words
Structure: 19 chapters, 961 paragraphs
Reading fit: Fairly Easy (7th Grade)

Good citation fit

Work identity for In an Unknown Prision Land by George Griffith
Canonical title URL and first readable passage URL
Genre and topic classification from the Textopian catalog
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Discussion starters

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How does this novel by George Griffith fit its genre, period, or classroom use?
Where does Adventure first become important in the reading?

Similar titles

Genres

Adventure — The narrative focuses on exploration and the protagonist's journey through unknown territories, emphasizing action and discovery.
Travel — The book details the protagonist's travels and experiences in unfamiliar lands, highlighting cultural and geographical elements.
Historical — The setting and events are influenced by historical contexts, providing insights into the period's socio-political environment.
Fiction — The story is a work of imagination, with fictional characters and events crafted to engage the reader.