T. Haviland Hicks, Senior

"T. Haviland Hicks, Senior" by James Raymond Elderdice is a novel likely written in the early 20th century. The story revolves around the energetic and whimsical character T. Haviland Hicks, Jr., a college student at Bannister College, who is notorious for his frivolous antics and musical escapades. As the narrative unfolds, Hicks deals with themes of camaraderie, competition, and responsibility while navigating his social life and athletic identity on campus. At the start of the novel, we meet Butch Brewster, the captain of the Bannister College football team, who is roused from slumber by Hicks's loud antics, which include singing about the Wild West and playing the banjo. This humorous awakening reveals their playful dynamic, setting the tone for the collegiate adventures to follow. As Butch becomes exasperated with Hicks, the story hints at a larger football plot—building towards the quest for team glory and the challenges introduced by the arrival of Thor, a tremendous new player Hicks promised to deliver. This opening chapter sets the stage for a blend of college life, light-hearted mischief, and aspirations of athletic success, sparking interest in a light-hearted college comedy.