Little Daffydowndilly / (From: "The Snow Image and Other Twice-Told Tales")

Name: Little Daffydowndilly / (From: "The Snow Image and Other Twice-Told Tales")
Author: Nathaniel Hawthorne

The tale follows a dreamy, flowerlike boy who resists labor and is sent from his indulgent mother to a strict schoolmaster called Mr. Toil. He runs away with an older companion and wanders past hayfields, a building site, and a marching company, repeatedly spotting men who resemble his stern teacher in farmer, carpenter, and officer guises. Each episodic encounter highlights the ubiquity of discipline and hard work, framing a reflection on the tension between a love of beauty and the everyday demands of industry and duty.

By Nathaniel Hawthorne

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About the Author

Nathaniel Hawthorne

Nathaniel Hawthorne was an American novelist and short story writer, born in 1804 in Salem, Massachusetts. He is best known for his exploration of moral complexity and the human condition, often set against the backdrop of New England's Puritan heritage. His notable works include "The Scarlet Letter," which delves into themes of sin and redemption, and "The House of the Seven Gables," a tale of guilt and retribution. Hawthorne's writing is characterized by its rich symbolism and psychological depth, making significant contributions to American literature. His stories often reflect his fascination with the darker aspects of human nature and the consequences of isolation.