"The World For Sale" is a novel by Gilbert Parker that was first published in 1916. The story takes place in Canada and centers around the clash of two cultures: the indigenous Romani people and the settlers who have arrived to claim the land as their own. The novel follows the story of Fleda Druse, a Romani woman who is caught between two worlds. She has been raised in the Romani culture but longs for the stability and security of the settled life. When she is given in marriage to Jethro Fawe, a fellow Romani, she tries to make the best of it, but her heart belongs to the Canadian settler, Ingolby. As tensions between the two cultures escalate, Fleda must navigate a complex web of loyalties and obligations. She finds herself torn between her love for Ingolby and her duty to her people. Along the way, she must confront betrayal, violence, and the harsh realities of life in a world where everything, including love and loyalty, is for sale. Through Fleda's story, the novel explores themes of cultural conflict, identity, and the struggle for survival in a rapidly changing world. It is a poignant and thought-provoking tale of love and loss, set against the backdrop of a changing landscape.
Gilbert Parker was a Canadian novelist and politician born on November 23, 1862, in Camden East, Ontario, Canada. After completing his education, he worked as a teacher and a journalist before moving to England in 1889 to pursue a career in writing. Parker is best known for his novels set in Canada, including "The Seats of the Mighty" and "The Right of Way," which explored themes of Canadian history and identity. He also wrote several plays and was a prolific journalist, writing for various newspapers and magazines. In addition to his literary career, Parker was involved in politics, serving as a member of parliament for the British Conservative Party from 1900 to 1917. He was also appointed to the Order of St. Michael and St. George in 1915 for his contributions to literature and public service. Throughout his career, Parker was recognized for his talent as a writer and his dedication to his country. He died on September 6, 1932, in London, England, at the age of 69.
