The Woman-Haters

"The Woman-Haters" by Joseph Crosby Lincoln is a summer farce-comedy written in the early 20th century. The story centers around Seth Atkins, the keeper of the Eastboro Twin-Lights, and introduces his new assistant, John Brown, after a series of mishaps leads to their unlikely partnership. With both characters harboring secrets and unique personalities, the narrative promises to explore themes of companionship, humor, and the quirks of life in a remote lighthouse setting. The opening of the novel establishes both the setting and the dynamic between the main characters. Seth Atkins is depicted as a solitary lightkeeper, dealing with the aftermath of his assistant's abrupt resignation and the loneliness of his situation. The introduction of John Brown, a mysterious young man who has just fallen overboard, brings a sense of intrigue and comedy to the narrative. Their interactions hint at a blend of humor and tension as they navigate their circumstances, particularly regarding their differing attitudes towards women and the various humorous chaotic situations that arise, including the arrival of a troublesome dog named Job. This initial segment sets a humorous tone while hinting at deeper explorations of character and connection in the unfolding story.