by Oscar Micheaux · 1913
Historical Fiction · Memoir · Classics
Oscar Micheaux's first book, a lightly fictionalised account of his own years as a Black homesteader on the plains of South Dakota.
Content note: Written around the turn of the twentieth century, this book uses the language of its time, including racial terms that are outdated and offensive today, and describes racism.
DISCONTENT—SPIRIT OF THE PIONEER
G GOOD gracious, has it been that long? It does not seem possible; but it was this very day nine years ago when a fellow handed me this little what-would-you-call-it, Ingalls called it "Opportunity." I've a notion to burn it, but I won't—not this time, instead, I'll put it down here and you may call it what you like.
Master of human destinies am I. Fame, love, and fortune on my footsteps wait. Cities and fields I walk. I penetrate Deserts and seas remote, and passing by Hovel, and mart, and palace—soon or late I knock unbidden once at every gate. If sleeping, wake—if feasting, rise before I turn away. It is the hour of fate, And they who follow me reach every state Mortals desire, and conquer every foe Save death; but those who doubt or hesitate, Condemned to failure, penury, and woe Seek me in vain and uselessly implore, I answer not, and I return no more.
Yes, it was that little poem that led me to this land and sometimes I wonder well, I just wonder, that's all. Again, I think it would be somewhat different if it wasn't for the wind.
