3 Review(s)

The story is set against the backdrop of the devastating hurricane that struck Last Island, an actual barrier island off the coast of Louisiana, in 1856. The hurricane led to the complete destruction of Last Island and resulted in the loss of many lives."Chita" is narrated by a young girl named Chita, who survives the hurricane and becomes stranded on a desolate island. She shares her experiences, struggles, and observations as she tries to survive in the aftermath of the storm. Throughout the novella, Hearn's writing vividly describes the natural beauty of the Louisiana coast, as well as the unique culture and traditions of the Creole people who inhabited the region.Lafcadio Hearn's writing style is characterized by its poetic and atmospheric prose, and "Chita" is no exception. It provides readers with a sense of the landscape, culture, and human resilience in the face of a catastrophic event."Chita: A Memory of Last Island" is not only a compelling historical narrative but also a literary work that captures the essence of a bygone era and a particular time and place in American history. It serves as both a poignant account of a natural disaster and a cultural exploration of the Creole heritage in Louisiana.