This is probably Willa Cather's best-known novel. This is a very gentle story of a simple life in the southwestern desert regions of New Mexico. Archbishop Jean Marie Latour comes to the area from Europe. The land has come under the auspices of America and its laws, but most of the people are Mexicans and Indians. The tale takes place over forty years (from the 1850s until the beginning of the 1890s). It is the story of the Archbishop, as he sowed the seeds of Christianity amongst the people of his diocese.
This is an interesting story of a man's gentle nurturing of the people he interacts with vs. the hard realities of the unforgiving land. The French missionary priest must deal with personal loneliness; he really doesn't see the good that he does. I am unable to share the profound sadness I feel about the ending of this wonderful story. This is such a powerful tale.
One thing I think this story might serve as a wonderful reminder to people who guide other lives (such as a priest, minister, teacher, counselor, etc.), that they have little idea how profoundly they can affect other lives. As a former teacher and counselor, I can only hope that my interactions with others might have made some difference. This story tells me that only time can demonstrate value; we are not equipped to measure it.
This is an interesting story of a man's gentle nurturing of the people he interacts with vs. the hard realities of the unforgiving land. The French missionary priest must deal with personal loneliness; he really doesn't see the good that he does. I am unable to share the profound sadness I feel about the ending of this wonderful story. This is such a powerful tale.
One thing I think this story might serve as a wonderful reminder to people who guide other lives (such as a priest, minister, teacher, counselor, etc.), that they have little idea how profoundly they can affect other lives. As a former teacher and counselor, I can only hope that my interactions with others might have made some difference. This story tells me that only time can demonstrate value; we are not equipped to measure it.
Back to all reviews by this member
Back to all reviews of this book
Back to Book Reviews
Back to Book Details
Back to all reviews of this book
Back to Book Reviews
Back to Book Details
