A Man of Impulse by Louis Becke

Name: A Man of Impulse
Author: Louis Becke

The story revolves around Blackett, a trader who has settled on an island in the Pacific. He is married to Cerita, a half-caste woman from the Bonin Islands, whom he bought from her father, a notorious pirate. The couple lives with Europuai, a wild bush-girl that Cerita purchased as a servant. Blackett's life takes a turn when old Hutton, a veteran trader, visits him and shares stories of his brutal exploits on the island. Blackett is disgusted by Hutton's tales but tries to maintain a polite demeanor. However, he is forced to confront the harsh realities of life on the island when he falls ill with fever. As Blackett lies in bed, he learns that Tubariga, the local chief, had killed Europuai after she ran away from Cerita's beating. The news sends Blackett into a state of despair and guilt, as he realizes that his actions have led to the girl's death. His relationship with Cerita begins to deteriorate, and they eventually leave the island together. The story explores themes of morality, violence, and the consequences of one's actions. Through Blackett's character, it highlights the complexities of human nature and the devastating effects of impulsive decisions.

By Louis Becke · First published 1887 · Genre: Literary Fiction, Adventure, Historical Fiction · 2,825 words

First lines

Blackett, the new trader at Guadalcanar in the Solomons, was entertaining a visitor, an old fellow from a station fifty miles distant, who had sailed over in his cutter to "have a pitch" with his nearest white neighbour. And the new man -- new to this particular island -- made much of his grizzled visitor and listened politely to the veteran's advice on many subjects, ranging from "doctoring" of perished tobacco with molasses to the barter of a Tower musket for a "werry nice gal."

What this Textopian page supports

A Man of Impulse is listed on Textopian as a short story by Louis Becke, dated 1887 CE.

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

Work type: Short story
Author: Louis Becke
Date: 1887 CE
Language: English
Genres: Literary Fiction, Adventure, Historical Fiction, Romance, Drama
Length: 2,825 words
Structure: 1 section, 41 paragraphs
Reading fit: Fairly Easy (7th Grade)

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Discussion starters

What should a reader notice first when entering A Man of Impulse?
How does this short story by Louis Becke fit its genre, period, or classroom use?
Where does Literary Fiction first become important in the reading?

Similar titles

Genres

Literary Fiction — The book explores complex characters and moral dilemmas, focusing on the psychological depth of Blackett's experiences and emotions.
Adventure — Set in the South Pacific, the narrative includes elements of exploration and the challenges faced by traders in a remote environment.
Historical Fiction — The story is set in a specific historical context involving colonialism and interactions between traders and indigenous peoples.
Romance — The relationship between Blackett and his wife Cerita is central to the plot, highlighting themes of love, possession, and cultural differences.