Old Times on the Mississippi
Mark Twain
Read by John Greenman
Old Times on the Mississippi offers a vivid glimpse into the life and culture along the Mississippi River as seen through the eyes of Mark Twain. This non-fiction work, originally published in serial form in 1875, captures Twain's reflections on his early experiences as a riverboat pilot and the changing landscape of the American South.
In this engaging narrative, Twain intertwines humor and nostalgia, painting a picture of a bygone era filled with colorful characters and memorable anecdotes. The book not only explores the river's significance to American life but also delves into the complexities of human nature and the passage of time.
As a precursor to his later work, Life on the Mississippi, this collection of essays stands out for its rich storytelling and keen observations. Twain's unique voice and perspective make this a fascinating listen for anyone interested in travel, history, or the American experience.
Chapters
Select a chapter to play
| 1 - 'Cub' wants to be a Pilot | 19:35 | Read by John Greenman | |
| 2 - 'Cub' Pilot's Experience; or, Learning the River | 29:13 | Read by John Greenman | |
| 3 - The Continued Perplexities of 'Cub' Piloting | 28:26 | Read by John Greenman | |
| 4 - The 'Cub' Pilot's Education nearly Completed | 26:52 | Read by John Greenman | |
| 5 - 'Sounding' Faculties Peculiarly Necessary to a Pilot | 31:28 | Read by John Greenman | |
| 6 - Official Rank and Dignity of a Pilot. The Rise and Decadence of the Pilot's Asociation | 40:52 | Read by John Greenman | |
| 7 - Leaving Port; Racing; Shortening of the River by Cut-offs; A Steamboar's Ghost; 'Stephen's' Plan of 'Resumption' | 28:57 | Read by John Greenman | |
| 8 - A Literary Nightmare | 12:53 | Read by John Greenman |
Reviews
An excellent reading from a great author
Pauline
A thoroughly enjoyable story read by a gentleman with a perfect voice. I particularly enjoyed chapter 8 - listened to it three times!
Largely a rehash of chapters in other books
Joy
well read as ever
not bad but not twain's best
Grezt
Paul M. Leary
This piece is, in my opinion, Mark Twain at his very best. Each word is carefully chosen for its weight and heft so that the author’s life on the river comes alive for the reader. It is poetry captured in prose. I doubt that there will be a single reader, no matter in what language he or she reads this work who will not be moved by it.
Classic Twain, Dry Humor well read
TLocke