Mark Twain's San Francisco

This collection showcases Mark Twain's sharp observations and humor about 19th-century San Francisco, revealing the city's eccentric charm and vibrant society.

In Mark Twain's San Francisco, readers are invited to explore the vibrant and often eccentric world of 19th-century San Francisco through the keen eyes of Mark Twain. This collection, curated by Bernard Taper, features a rich assortment of Twain's newspaper articles, correspondence, poetry, and short stories. Each piece showcases Twain's sharp wit and insightful commentary on the society around him, from the peculiarities of high society to the everyday lives of the city's inhabitants. His observations are often humorous, occasionally controversial, and always engaging, painting a vivid picture of a city in flux.

The book also includes lively illustrations by Edward Jump, a contemporary of Twain, which serve as a delightful accompaniment to the text. Jump's artwork adds a visual element to Twain's cantankerous prose, highlighting the absurdities and charm of the era. Together, they bring to life the colorful characters and events that shaped San Francisco during this dynamic period, from earthquakes to social scandals.

Mark Twain's San Francisco presents a captivating blend of history and humor, revealing Twain's unique perspective on the city he loved. Through his eyes, readers will encounter everything from elegant ladies to stray dogs, all woven into a narrative that is both fascinating and hilariously familiar. This collection is a testament to Twain's enduring legacy as a chronicler of American life.