A Drift from Redwood Camp

"A Drift from Redwood Camp" by Bret Harte is a story set in the American West, which looks at what happens when a regular guy suddenly gets big responsibilities. Elijah Martin, generally seen as someone who doesn't do much, is carried away from Redwood Camp by a flood, landing him right in the middle of a Native American tribe. They think he's their prophesized leader, so he pretends to be their chief. While in charge, he deals with tough choices and his own selfish desires, even when his people are in trouble. This shows how complicated he is, as he's both scared and brave. Although he changes the tribe, his problems cause trouble, especially when his wife gets involved. The story ends back at Redwood Camp, making us think about who we really are and how we live together.