Greener than spruce

"Greener Than Spruce" by Herbert Farris is a story that follows Harris Benton, an unseasoned prospector during the Alaskan mining rush, as he journeys into the untamed wilderness, driven by dreams of striking it rich. The narrative examines the themes of ambition, perseverance, and the severe realities of pursuing wealth in a tough environment, highlighting Benton's transformation from a naive newcomer to a resourceful individual. Arriving in Alaska full of optimism, Benton quickly learns that his inexperience is a steep learning curve. After claiming land and successfully finding gold, he soon faces challenges such as Joe Murtry, who has a hold on essential water sources for mining. Thanks to a clever move, swapping his large amount of unneeded oil for needed water, Benton changes his fortune, showing how important smart thinking and never giving up during hardships can be.