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Cover of David Ives : $b A Story of St. Timothy's

David Ives : $b A Story of St. Timothy's

Written by Arthur Stanwood Pier

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About this book

"David Ives: A Story of St. Timothy's" by Arthur Stanwood Pier is a coming-of-age novel written in the early 20th century. The narrative centers around David Ives, a young boy about to embark on a transformative journey as he is sent to the prestigious St. Timothy's boarding school. This marks the beginning of his deeper involvement in education, athletics, and the challenges of adolescence away from home. The opening of the story sets the stage for David's life in a modest suburb, highlighting his relationships with his family, particularly with his caring yet anxious mother and his ambitious father, who hopes for his son's bright future as a surgeon. As the family prepares for his departure to St. Timothy's, emotions run high, blending excitement with sorrow. David grapples with the tension of leaving home and the expectations placed upon him, revealing themes of growth, responsibility, and the bittersweet nature of new beginnings. The reader witnesses the depth of family ties and David's initial impressions and hopes for his new life, emphasizing the formative experiences that will shape his character as he navigates the complexities of adolescence.

Reading guide

Themes, characters and key ideas in David Ives : $b A Story of St. Timothy's, written by Chaptra AI.

  • about 8 hours
  • intermediate
  • Nostalgic
  • Formative
  • Aspirational

Arthur Stanwood Pier's "David Ives: A Story of St. Timothy's" is an early 20th-century coming-of-age novel chronicling the formative experiences of its young protagonist, David Ives. The story begins in a modest suburb, depicting David's close family ties and the emotional preparations for his departure to the prestigious St. Timothy's boarding school. This transition marks David's entry into a new world of education, athletics, and social dynamics, away from the familiar comforts and the high expectations of his parents, particularly his ambitious father who envisions a surgical career for him. The narrative explores the bittersweet tension of leaving home, the challenges of adolescence, and the profound impact of new beginnings on character formation. Ultimately, it's a tale of growth, responsibility, and the complex journey toward self-discovery within a structured institutional setting.

"The greatest victories are not those won on the field, but those forged in the quiet chambers of the heart."

Key themes

Coming-of-Age and Self-Discovery
This is the central theme, exploring David's transition from boyhood to young adulthood. The narrative traces his psychological and emotional development as he navigates new environments, challenges, and relationships, ultimately forging his own identity away from the direct influence of his family.
Parental Expectations vs. Personal Aspiration
The novel explores the tension between the path laid out by David's ambitious father (a surgeon) and David's own emerging interests and desires. This theme highlights the struggle for individuality within the framework of familial duty and societal pressures.
The Role of Institution and Tradition
St. Timothy's itself functions as a significant character and thematic element, representing the power of established institutions and their traditions in shaping individuals. The novel examines how adherence to rules, participation in rituals, and immersion in a collective history contribute to personal discipline and a sense of belonging.

Worth discussing

How do parental expectations influence a child's sense of self and future aspirations?

Chapter-by-chapter breakdowns, character arcs and the full thematic analysis come with a free account.

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