Island Nights' Entertainments

"Island Nights' Entertainments" by Robert Louis Stevenson is a collection of stories that starts by plunging into the life of John Wiltshire, a man stepping onto the shores of Falesá after years among the people of a neighboring island, ready to start his life as a trader in the South Pacific. The story paints a picture of a lively place where the customs of the people, the relationships between them, and the business of the island come together. Wiltshire's fresh eyes take in the island and its inhabitants, creating both excitement and worry as he gets to know the local traders and begins to imagine his future there. As he learns more about the island and the sneaky Case, who pulls the strings for his own benefit, the story makes the reader feel that something bad is about to happen. Wiltshire's hopes lead him to consider loving Uma, a local woman, which shows both the attraction and danger of his feelings. Themes of being alone, culture conflicts, and finding where one belongs begin to surface, setting the scene for upcoming troubles as Witshire makes his way in his new land.