The Ruling Passion: Tales of Nature and Human Nature

"The Ruling Passion: Tales of Nature and Human Nature" by Henry Van Dyke is a compilation of late 19th-century short stories that examine the powerful forces that guide human action through themes of love, nature, and the intricacies of life. These diverse stories showcase people grappling with their deepest desires within the broader world. The book begins with the author's thoughts on storytelling and his aim to create narratives that capture true human feelings, preparing the reader for tales of love, ambition, honor, and dedication. For example, the story of Jacques Tremblay, a traveling fiddle player who appears in a remote village on New Year's Eve, highlights the influence of music as a ruling passion, setting a magical mood for the tales ahead.