"The Portygee" by Joseph Crosby Lincoln is a captivating maritime fiction novel set in a coastal New England village. The story immerses readers in the sea life and local color of a small-town community, exploring the dynamics and social interactions among its residents. The novel features nautical tales and adventure, centering on a character-driven narrative that highlights the humor and unique characteristics of the community. Lincoln’s portrayal of family relationships and folklore adds depth to the depiction of small-town life, offering a rich and engaging look at the everyday experiences and challenges faced by the villagers. Through its vivid setting and well-crafted characters, "The Portygee" captures the essence of coastal village life and the bonds that unite its people. The book reflects Lincoln’s skill in blending humor with insightful observations, making it a memorable exploration of New England’s maritime culture and community dynamics.
Joseph Crosby Lincoln was an American novelist, poet, and short story writer, with many of his works situated on a fictional Cape Cod. Lincoln was born in 1870 in Brewster, Massachusetts, on Cape Cod, and after his father died, his mother relocated the family to Chelsea, Massachusetts, an industrial community outside of Boston. Lincoln's writing career extolling "old Cape Cod" can be viewed as an attempt to return to an Eden that he had fled due to familial sorrow. Lincoln's work was frequently featured in renowned journals like The Saturday Evening Post and The Delineator. Lincoln was aware of contemporary naturalist writers like Frank Norris and Theodore Dreiser, who utilized American literature to delve into the depths of human nature, but he rejected the creative exercise. Lincoln stated that he was content "spinning yarns" that made readers feel good about themselves and their neighbors. His work served as the basis for six films and a short.
