Fire Worship (From "Mosses from an Old Manse")

Fire Worship (From "Mosses from an Old Manse") by Nathaniel Hawthorne is a nostalgic reflection on the changing times, focusing on the shift from open fireplaces to air-tight stoves in 19th-century America. The essay explores a sense of loss as the traditional fireplace, once a gathering place for warmth, stories, and family connection, is replaced by the cold efficiency of modernity. The author vividly depicts life around the vibrant hearth, from inspiring clergymen to comforting families, illustrating the profound impact of this transition on social relationships and the human spirit. Central to the piece is a critique of utilitarian inventions that, while practical, lack the emotional depth and communal significance of an open flame. It ultimately mourns the decline of shared moments and the vital role fire played in nurturing genuine human connection.