The Works of Robert Louis Stevenson - Swanston Edition, Vol. 25

"The Works of Robert Louis Stevenson - Swanston Edition, Vol. 25" by Robert Louis Stevenson is a compilation of personal letters and writings that transports readers to the author's life in Samoa in the late 1800s. This volume vividly chronicles Stevenson's initial year at Vailima, sharing his experiences with the challenges and cultural insights of living in the South Pacific. Through his letters, we see Stevenson's perspectives on literature, agricultural practices, and the complexities of local politics, alongside his relationships with people he met during that era. The story begins with Stevenson and his wife arriving at their newly established home in Samoa, highlighting the adjustments required in their rugged environment. Revealing trials in setting up their household—from dealing with labor and navigating local traditions to taming the natural world— Stevenson details his reflections on writing pursuits during his time there. Weaving together intimate stories with observations about the vibrant yet complex Samoan political scene, this volume captures the essence of Stevenson's life in a fascinating foreign land while keeping a firm focus on his writing and friendships.