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American Notes

by Rudyard Kipling (1865–1936)

  • Free to read
  • 2 hours to read
  • 8 chapters
  • Reading level: 7th grade

"American Notes" by Rudyard Kipling is a collection of travel essays written in the late 19th century. The text reflects Kipling’s impressions as he travels through America, sharing his perspectives on various cities and social customs. As he arrives in San Francisco, Kipling captures the chaotic character of the city and the intriguing blend of American culture that challenges his expectations as a British traveler. The opening of the book describes Kipling's arrival in San Francisco, where he is immediately struck by the madness and beauty of the city. He recounts his bewildering experiences navigating through the unfamiliar urban landscape, encountering a mix of charming and bewildering characters, and grappling with the cultural differences he observes. From his interactions with local reporters to the peculiarities of American hospitality, Kipling's narrative highlights both his fascination and critique of American society. The writing is both humorous and critical as he reflects on the differences in language, customs, and social norms, setting the stage for his continued exploration of the diverse and tumultuous landscape of America.

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  • United States · Description and travel
  • United States · Social life and customs · 1865-1918

Read the opening

I. At the Golden Gate

“Serene, indifferent to fate,
Thou sittest at the Western Gate;
Thou seest the white seas fold their tents,
Oh, warder of two continents;
Thou drawest all things, small and great,
To thee, beside the Western Gate.”

THIS is what Bret Harte has written of the great city of San Francisco, and for the past fortnight I have been wondering what made him do it.

There is neither serenity nor indifference to be found in these parts; and evil would it be for the continents whose wardship were intrusted to so reckless a guardian.

Behold me pitched neck-and-crop from twenty days of the high seas into the whirl of California, deprived of any guidance, and left to draw my own conclusions. Protect me from the wrath of an outraged community if these letters be ever read by American eyes! San Francisco is a mad city—inhabited for the most part by perfectly insane people, whose women are of a remarkable beauty.

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Contents

  1. Introduction
  2. I. At the Golden Gate
  3. II. American Politics
  4. III. American Salmon
  5. IV. The Yellowstone
  6. V. Chicago
  7. VI. The American Army
  8. VII. America's Defenceless Coasts

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About this edition

This free edition of American Notes by Rudyard Kipling comes from Project Gutenberg eBook #977, released 1997-07-01. It is in the public domain in the United States, so you can read it here in full at no cost, on any phone, tablet or computer. Genre: Travel Writing.

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