"Last Words" by Stephen Crane is a novel that delves into the profound themes of death, farewell, and eternity. Set against the backdrop of impending mortality, the narrative explores the legacy left behind by the protagonist, who grapples with solitude and seeks transcendence beyond the earthly realm. Through moments of reflection, the character confronts the inevitability of their own demise, ultimately embracing surrender as they confront their mortality. As the story unfolds, there is a resonance that echoes throughout the pages, a resonance that speaks to the universal human experience of departure and the quest for immortality. In the silence of their final moments, there is a sense of absolution, a release from the burdens of life and a recognition of the fleeting nature of existence. Yet, amidst the silence, there is also an epiphany, a moment of clarity where the protagonist discovers the true essence of life and the enduring legacy of love and connection. In "Last Words," Crane masterfully weaves together these themes to create a poignant narrative that challenges readers to contemplate the nature of life, death, and the eternal human spirit.
Stephen Crane was born on November 1, 1871, in America. He was known for his short story, novels, and poems. He produced many stories novels and poems that are still recognized by modern critics. Crane was the ninth child of Methodist parents. He started writing at the age of four and by sixteen many of his works got published. He wasn't much interested in studies but had a great interest in fraternity. In 1891, he left Syracuse University and started working as a reporter and writer. He wrote his first novel in 1893 which was a Bowery tale, named Maggie: A Girl of the Streets. He won awards for the novel The Red Badge of Courage which was based on the Civil War that he wrote in 1895, without any war experience. In 1896, Crane endured a highly publicized scandal after appearing as a witness at the trial of a suspected prostitute, an acquaintance named Dora Clark. Later in the same year, he traveled to Cuba as a war correspondent. At the age of 28 Crane died due to tuberculosis in a Black Forest sanatorium in Germany. Crane was an important figure in American literature during the time of his death.
