Journey through The Beach of Falesá

The Beach of Falesá is a hybrid style of writing, a blend between a short story and a novel, known as a novella. Novellas are longer than short stories but shorter than novels. The novella was written by the Scottish author Robert Louis Stevenson and was first published as part of the collection 'Island Nights' Entertainments.' It's a work of fiction, drawing inspiration from Stevenson's travels and experiences in the South Pacific..

John Wiltshire's Arrival and Marriage

The novella begins with its protagonist, John Wiltshire, a European trader who arrives on the fictional island of Falesà with the intention of taking over a trading station. Upon his arrival, he is manipulated into marrying a native girl, Uma, under the false pretense that it is necessary for his business and acceptance in the community.

This orchestrated marriage is masterminded by Case, another trader on the island, who holds significant influence over the local population and views Wiltshire as a competitor.

Deception and Affection

Wiltshire soon discovers that Case's marriage ceremony wasn't legal, indicating that Case tricked him to damage his reputation among the islanders. Despite this betrayal, Wiltshire develops genuine affection for Uma and decides to continue living with her as his wife. Notably, he treats Uma with respect and care, which contrasts with the common dynamics in European traders' relationships with native women during that period.

Case's Tricks

Case is portrayed as a manipulative figure who has established his dominance over the island through fear, exploiting the islanders' beliefs in ghosts and spirits. He uses these superstitions to maintain control and discourage competition by setting up a series of taboo areas guarded by supposed spirits, which are actually tricks he has set up.

Defeating Deception

Wiltshire, with Uma's help, starts to see through Case's deceptions and decides to confront him to end his exploitation and control over the island. He manages to defeat Case despite facing supernatural trickery and physical danger, thereby liberating the island from his manipulative grip.

With Case's influence gone, Wiltshire is able to establish himself as a respected trader. He and Uma continue their life together, with their relationship becoming a symbol of an interaction between the island's native population and the European traders.

Theme

The novella explores different themes, offering a detailed exploration of colonialism, cultural clash, manipulation, and struggle for power. Wiltshire, the main character, faces challenges but manages to free the island from Case.

Central Narrative Zones

In The Beach of Falesá, John Wiltshire begins his work upon arriving in Falesá, which is considered as part of the content zone. This signifies the central area or heart of the narrative where significant events unfold, and key locations and settings are crucial in advancing the plot.

References

Stevenson, R.L. (2011). The Beach of Falesà. Island Nights' Entertainments (pp. 45-123).