Joseph Conrad The Shadow Line

“We proceed recognizing the traces of those who came before us, excited, amused, accepting both good and bad fortune… the picturesque and common destiny that offers so many opportunities to those who are deserving or lucky. Yes. We move forward. And time also moves forward, until a shadow line appears before us, warning us that we must leave behind even our early youth.”

Written in 1915 and published in 1917, The Shadow-Line is a subtle and profound analysis of human nature. This short novel is based on Conrad’s youthful seafaring experiences, which the writer often drew upon in his narratives. A young captain, on his first command, immediately faces immense difficulties: the lack of wind preventing navigation, the crew exhausted by tropical fevers, and a first officer convinced that the ship is haunted by the evil spirit of the previous commander.