The Little Gods: A Masque of the Far East

A weary writer, stuck in the quiet of a New England autumn, finds his imagination sparked by distant memories of an ancient, sun‑baked street in the Far East. The narrative opens with his sudden transport into that bustling thoroughfare, where red‑and‑gold rooftops and a river of people pulse with life, ambition, and mystery. From there the book unfolds as a series of vivid, loosely linked sketches, each introducing a new figure—a daring merchant, a wistful woman, a restless patriot—who embody the restless spirit of a world still young at heart.

Through these episodes the author captures the clash of cultures, the humor of everyday mishaps, and the quiet heroism that rises in ordinary moments. The stories are peppered with witty observations and gentle satire, inviting listeners to wander the alleys and temples of a bygone city while reflecting on the universal pursuits of love, honor, and the occasional folly.