Alexander's Bridge

"Alexander's Bridge" by Willa Cather is a story set in the early 1900s, detailing the life of Professor Lucius Wilson as he journeys to Boston and contemplates his existence. He meets the intriguing Mrs. Alexander and her accomplished husband, Bartley, who builds bridges. The story touches on feelings of affection, desires for advancement, and the tricky parts of being close to others, all seen through Wilson's interest in the Alexanders. Through his encounters and conversations with those around him, particularly Mrs. Alexander, Wilson reveals his admiration for her attributes. Longing and unspoken wants hint at the chance for deeper bonds and conflicts, painting a picture of how ambition and relationships mix.