Out of Town by Thomas Burke (1920)
The narrative follows a struggling writer who, facing financial difficulties, receives an unexpected telegram from a London publisher offering him a job in Monte Carlo. The writer eagerly accepts the opportunity to assist an American millionaire in writing a book, despite the challenges posed by wartime travel restrictions. His journey begins with a series of bureaucratic hurdles, including obtaining a passport and navigating crowded trains filled with soldiers. The atmosphere is tense, reflecting the ongoing war, yet the writer remains optimistic about his destination. Upon arriving in Paris, he observes the city's somber mood, marked by the war's impact on its inhabitants. Continuing to Monte Carlo, he finds the once-vibrant locale subdued, with many hotels closed and a sense of emptiness pervading the area. Despite this, he settles into an Italian pension where he is treated warmly by the staff. His work with the millionaire is light, allowing him to enjoy the Mediterranean sun and local culture. Throughout his stay, he encounters notable figures, including the famous opera singer Caruso, and experiences the carefree spirit of the region, contrasting sharply with the grim realities of war. The writer's interactions with the locals and fellow travelers reveal a sense of camaraderie and resilience amidst adversity. As his time in Monte Carlo comes to an end, he faces the bureaucratic challenges of leaving, having inadvertently broken several wartime regulations. After navigating the complexities of travel permissions, he returns to London, where he quickly negotiates a publishing deal for the millionaire's manuscript. Ultimately, the writer finds himself back at square one, reflecting on the transient nature of his success and the unpredictability of life as a writer during wartime. The story captures themes of hope, resilience, and the contrasting experiences of joy and hardship in a world affected by conflict.
By Thomas Burke · First published 1920 · Genre: Literary Fiction, Travel Literature, Historical Fiction · 3,645 words
First lines
It was an empty day, in the early part of the year, and I was its very idle singer; so idle that I was beginning to wonder whether there would be any Sunday dinner for me. I took stock of my possessions in coin, and found one-and-ten-pence-halfpenny. Was I downhearted? Yes. But I didn't worry, for when things are at their worst, my habit is always to fold my hands and trust. Something always happens.
Something happened on this occasion: a double knock at the door and a telegram. It was from the most enlightened London publisher, whose firm has done so much in the way of encouraging young writers, and it asked me to call at once. I did so.
What this Textopian page supports
Out of Town is listed on Textopian as a short story by Thomas Burke, dated 1920 CE.
This source record anchors work identity, reading entry points, and catalog context for checking claims about the work.
- Work type: Short story
- Author: Thomas Burke
- Date: 1920 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Literary Fiction, Travel Literature, Historical Fiction, Comedy, Autobiographical Fiction
- Length: 3,645 words
- Structure: 1 section, 36 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Standard (8th-9th Grade)
Good citation fit
- Work identity for Out of Town by Thomas Burke
- Canonical title URL and first readable passage URL
- Genre and topic classification from the Textopian catalog
- Readability and classroom-planning context
- Passage-specific claims should cite the exact /read/ URL for the relevant chapter or paragraph
Discussion starters
- What should a reader notice first when entering Out of Town?
- How does this short story by Thomas Burke fit its genre, period, or classroom use?
- Where does Literary Fiction first become important in the reading?
Similar titles
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- A Lilt Of The Road by Sir Arthur Conan Doyle
- A Backblockers Pleasure Trip by Edward S. Sorenson
- Outside by Henry Lawson
- Scenes The River by Charles Dickens
- Journey To Portugal by Jose Saramago
Genres
- Literary Fiction — The narrative focuses on character development, introspection, and the exploration of themes such as war, identity, and the human experience.
- Travel Literature — The protagonist's journey to Monte Carlo and the vivid descriptions of various locations highlight the travel aspect of the narrative.
- Historical Fiction — Set during wartime, the story reflects the historical context and its impact on society and individuals.
- Comedy — The writing style incorporates humor and wit, particularly in the protagonist's observations and interactions.
Tags
travel · adventure · exploration · urban · countryside · journey · escape · nature · landscape · culture · discovery · solitude