Four Bells A Tale Of The Caribbean

by Ralph D Paine

Overview

Four bells: A tale of the Caribbean reflects on the pull between duty and longing, capturing the quiet transformation that occurs when routine collides with unexpected discovery. The narrative follows a journey that is less about physical distance and more about internal change, using the sea as both setting and metaphor for the uncertainties of selfhood. It examines how nostalgia and the romanticism of the past shape a person's sense of purpose, especially when confronted with unfamiliar landscapes and new emotional currents. The story navigates identity through encounters that challenge practicality, introducing the idea that meaning often emerges not from control but from openness to chance. It also explores how responsibility to family and tradition can coexist with deeper desires for autonomy and exploration. By tracing the evolution of a disciplined officer into someone more attuned to possibility and connection, the novel reveals how place and companionship influence the reevaluation of personal goals.

Product Details

ISBN-13:	9789371139656
Publisher:	Double 9 Books
Publication date:	05/01/2025
Pages:	240
Product dimensions:	5.50(w) x 8.50(h) x 0.55(d)

About the Author

Ralph Delahaye Paine was an American journalist and author known for his adventure novels and maritime writings in the early 20th century. Born on August 28, 1871, in Lemont, Illinois, he pursued his education at James Hillhouse High School before attending Yale University, where he became an active member of the Skull and Bones society. His early career in journalism saw him reporting on major events, including the Spanish-American War, before he transitioned into fiction writing. His works often reflected his fascination with naval history and seafaring life, capturing the spirit of adventure and resilience. Beyond his literary contributions, Paine entered public service, serving as a New Hampshire State Representative from 1918 to 1920. He later held additional government roles, blending his political interests with his passion for storytelling. He was married and had two children, Ralph Paine Jr. and Stuart Paine. He passed away on April 29, 1925, in Concord, New Hampshire, leaving behind a legacy as both a writer and a public servant.