Roughing It

“I meant to see all I could that was new and strange, and then hurry home to business. I little thought that I would not see the end of that three-month pleasure excursion for six or seven uncommonly long years!”

From the outset, Twain unconsciously makes a statement that will dictate his selection of material for the novel. He is principally interested in sights that are new and strange to him. Throughout the book, the author zeroes in on eccentric characters who spin absurd and implausible stories, fulfilling his need for the new and strange.

“Even at this day it thrills me through and through to think of the life, the gladness and the wild sense of freedom that used to make the blood dance in my veins on those fine overland mornings!”

Twain is recalling the early days of his stage journey. He and his companions watch the country roll past them at what is considered a rapid pace for its day. His exhilaration in the experience of speed and novelty is apparent in this quote.

“The fleet messenger who sped across the continent from St. Joe to Sacramento, carrying letters nineteen hundred miles in eight days! Think of that for perishable horse and human flesh and blood to do!”

The author is discussing the Pony Express. These messengers only operated for a few years before the arrival of the transcontinental railroad. However, the record speeds they set in spanning the continent were the stuff of legend. This quote demonstrates how awestruck Twain is at the thought and sight of the express riders.