3 Review(s)

The novel centers around the ambitious and complex characters in a small Pennsylvania town. It focuses on the story of Captain Robert Wall, who is driven by a desire to achieve success and respectability in his community. Captain Wall is involved in the coal industry and seeks to expand his influence and wealth.As the story unfolds, Hergesheimer delves into the dynamics of Wall's relationships with his family, friends, and business associates. The narrative explores how his ambition affects his personal life and the people around him. The title, "The Dark Fleece," metaphorically represents the allure and the moral ambiguities of wealth and power.Hergesheimer's prose is known for its rich detail and vivid descriptions, which bring to life the social setting and the characters' inner worlds. The novel provides a critical examination of the pursuit of material success and the personal and ethical dilemmas it can create.