Old Man Savarin, and Other Stories

"Old Man Savarin and Other Stories" by Edward William Thomson is a collection of short stories written in the late 19th century. The opening tale, "Old Man Savarin," introduces the main character, an old rascal who exploits the fishermen of a small village, particularly focusing on the Laroque family. The narrative unfolds through the voice of a young storyteller who recounts the mischief and rivalry surrounding Savarin, highlighting themes of greed, community, and justice. The beginning of the collection presents a vivid scene by the Rapid Rataplan of the Ottawa River, where Ma'ame Paradis, a seasoned fisherman, strikes a deal with a narrator for some fish. She then begins to tell a tale about Old Man Savarin, who is notorious for his greedy and unscrupulous behavior toward local fishermen. As she recounts her family's struggles against his oppressive antics, the story shifts into a humorous yet critical exploration of how Savarin's misdeeds ultimately lead to his comeuppance, intertwining local folklore with biting social commentary. The storytelling style is rich with dialect and regional color, setting a lively tone for the stories that follow.