Last Days in a Dutch Hotel (from Literature and Life)

Name: Last Days in a Dutch Hotel (from Literature and Life)
Author: William Dean Howells

By William Dean Howells

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Travel Writing

About This Book

The narrator recounts a late-season stay at a North Sea seaside hotel, describing cold winds, intermittent rain, and a shrinking company of guests while hotel staff maintain full service and elaborate bathing routines. He observes daily sea-bathing with bathing machines and attendants, amusing contrasts in attire, and practical safety measures. The hotel is portrayed as enduring and well-maintained, with steady domestic routines and gradual dismantling as the season ends. The account contrasts European permanence and careful infrastructure with American provisionality, and sketches the dune landscapes, planted defenses, and small agricultural uses visible around the resort.

About the Author

William Dean Howells

William Dean Howells (1837-1920) was an influential American author and literary critic, often regarded as the "Dean of American Letters." He is best known for his realistic portrayals of American life and society, particularly in the late 19th century. Howells's works often explore themes of social class and morality, reflecting the complexities of contemporary life. His notable novel, "A Hazard of New Fortunes," delves into the challenges faced by individuals in a rapidly changing society. Throughout his career, Howells contributed significantly to the development of realism in American literature, advocating for a more truthful representation of everyday experiences.