The Affable Stranger

"The Affable Stranger" by Peter McArthur is a novel written in the early 20th century. The narrative centers on a thoughtful traveler who reflects on contemporary society as he interacts with different characters during a train journey from Montreal to Boston. Through their conversations, McArthur examines themes of identity, nationalism, and the shared human experience in a post-war context. At the start of the book, the narrator introduces himself as an observant participant in conversations with fellow Americans aboard the train. He listens intently to their discussions touching upon topics such as the war, social dynamics, and cultural perceptions, all while trying to glean insights into American identity from a Canadian perspective. The opening sets a tone of sociological exploration, as the narrator grapples with issues surrounding patriotism, post-war sentiment, and the complexities of interpersonal behaviors among diverse individuals.