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On the Seaboard
On the Seaboard

Chapter I

Chapter 1 of On the Seaboard is here in full — 468 sentences across 94 reading sections, with audio for every sentence and word.

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Context Illustration Reading 1/93 · 5 lines
English subtitles · tap any word to listen 1 / 5
EASTER, LUCKY PEHR, ETC.
PREFACE August Strindberg's first literary productions were warmly received, and would have aroused lasting enthusiasm and admiration had the young author's prolific pen been less aggressive, in this, for his country, a totally new style of novel.
His intrepid sarcasm which emanated from a physical disability, known only to a few of his most intimate friends, called forth severe criticism from the old aristocrats and the conservative element, which drove the gifted dramatist from his own country to new spheres.
Life's vicissitudes at Vierwaldstätter See, and Berlin, also later on at Paris from whence his fame spread rapidly over Europe, changed his realism to pessimism.
After years of ceaseless work, during which he dipped into almost every branch of science, he suddenly determined to transfer his activities to this side of the Atlantic, where he was desirous of becoming known.
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LEARNER DICTIONARY
Archivist
/ˈɑːrkɪvɪst/
Editorial verification pending

A keeper or guardian of historical records and memories.

On the Seaboard

Chapter I

Chapter 1 of On the Seaboard is here in full — 468 sentences across 94 reading sections, with audio for every sentence and word.

Reading 1/93 · 5 reading units · Lines 1–5

Line 1
EASTER, LUCKY PEHR, ETC.
Line 2
PREFACE August Strindberg's first literary productions were warmly received, and would have aroused lasting enthusiasm and admiration had the young author's prolific pen been less aggressive, in this, for his country, a totally new style of novel.
Line 3
His intrepid sarcasm which emanated from a physical disability, known only to a few of his most intimate friends, called forth severe criticism from the old aristocrats and the conservative element, which drove the gifted dramatist from his own country to new spheres.
/hɪz ɪnˈtrepəd ˈsɑːrkæzəm wɪtʃ ˈeməneɪtɪd frʌm ə ˈfɪzɪkəl ˌdɪsəˈbɪlɪti noʊn ˈoʊnli tuː ə fjuː ʌv hɪz moʊst ˈɪntəmət frendz kɔːld fɔːrθ səˈvɪr ˈkrɪtɪsɪzəm frʌm ðə oʊld ərˈɪstəkræts ənd ðə kənˈsɜːrvətɪv ˈeləmənt wɪtʃ droʊv ðə ˈɡɪftəd ˈdrɑːmətɪst frʌm hɪz oʊn ˈkʌntri tuː nuː sfɪrz/
Line 4
Life's vicissitudes at Vierwaldstätter See, and Berlin, also later on at Paris from whence his fame spread rapidly over Europe, changed his realism to pessimism.
Line 5
After years of ceaseless work, during which he dipped into almost every branch of science, he suddenly determined to transfer his activities to this side of the Atlantic, where he was desirous of becoming known.
/ˈæftər jɪrz ʌv ˈsiːslɪs wɜːrk ˈdʊrɪŋ wɪtʃ hiː dɪpt ˈɪntuː ˈɔːlmoʊst ˈevəri bræntʃ ʌv ˈsaɪəns hiː ˈsʌdənli dɪˈtɜːrmənd tuː trænˈsfɜːr hɪz ækˈtɪvətiz tuː ðɪs saɪd ʌv ðə ətˈlæntɪk wer hiː wɑːz dɪˈzaɪrəs ʌv bɪˈkʌmɪŋ noʊn/

Learner Dictionary

These definitions explain words found in the current reading and keep every example grounded in its original sentence.

Oxford-style entry order: headword, part of speech, US IPA, concise definition, contextual example, and audio.

aristocrats noun US /ərˈɪstəkræts/

plural of “aristocrat” — a member of the aristocracy

From this reading “His intrepid sarcasm which emanated from a physical disability, known only to a few of his most intimate friends, called forth severe criticism from the old aristocrats and the conservative element, which drove the gifted dramatist from his own country to new spheres.”

disability noun US /ˌdɪsəˈbɪlɪti/

the condition of being unable to perform as a consequence of physical or mental unfitness

From this reading “His intrepid sarcasm which emanated from a physical disability, known only to a few of his most intimate friends, called forth severe criticism from the old aristocrats and the conservative element, which drove the gifted dramatist from his own country to new spheres.”

dramatist noun US /ˈdrɑːmətɪst/

someone who writes plays

From this reading “His intrepid sarcasm which emanated from a physical disability, known only to a few of his most intimate friends, called forth severe criticism from the old aristocrats and the conservative element, which drove the gifted dramatist from his own country to new spheres.”

emanated verb US /ˈeməneɪtɪd/

past form of “emanate” — proceed or issue forth, as from a source

From this reading “His intrepid sarcasm which emanated from a physical disability, known only to a few of his most intimate friends, called forth severe criticism from the old aristocrats and the conservative element, which drove the gifted dramatist from his own country to new spheres.”

pessimism noun US /ˈpesəmɪzəm/

the feeling that things will turn out badly

From this reading “Life's vicissitudes at Vierwaldstätter See, and Berlin, also later on at Paris from whence his fame spread rapidly over Europe, changed his realism to pessimism.”

prolific adjective US /proʊˈlɪfɪk/

intellectually productive

From this reading “PREFACE August Strindberg's first literary productions were warmly received, and would have aroused lasting enthusiasm and admiration had the young author's prolific pen been less aggressive, in this, for his country, a totally new style of novel.”

realism noun US /ˈriːəlɪzəm/

the attribute of accepting the facts of life and favoring practicality and literal truth

From this reading “Life's vicissitudes at Vierwaldstätter See, and Berlin, also later on at Paris from whence his fame spread rapidly over Europe, changed his realism to pessimism.”

vicissitudes noun US /vɪˈsɪsɪtuːdz/

plural of “vicissitude” — a variation in circumstances or fortune at different times in your life or in the development of something

From this reading “Life's vicissitudes at Vierwaldstätter See, and Berlin, also later on at Paris from whence his fame spread rapidly over Europe, changed his realism to pessimism.”

Word partnerships in these lines

English keeps certain words together, and knowing the pair is worth more than knowing each word alone. Every partnership below was counted across our whole published library, and earns its place by appearing far more often than two unrelated words of the same frequency would.

Shown as this reading writes them, with the form the library counts, what kind of pairing it is, and how often it occurs.

literary productions adjective + noun counted as “literary production”

In this reading “PREFACE August Strindberg's first literary productions were warmly received, and would have aroused lasting enthusiasm and admiration had the young author's prolific pen been less aggressive, in this, for his country, a totally new style of novel.”

intimate friends adjective + noun counted as “intimate friend”

In this reading “His intrepid sarcasm which emanated from a physical disability, known only to a few of his most intimate friends, called forth severe criticism from the old aristocrats and the conservative element, which drove the gifted dramatist from his own country to new spheres.”

most intimate adverb + adjective

In this reading “His intrepid sarcasm which emanated from a physical disability, known only to a few of his most intimate friends, called forth severe criticism from the old aristocrats and the conservative element, which drove the gifted dramatist from his own country to new spheres.”

spread rapidly verb + particle

In this reading “Life's vicissitudes at Vierwaldstätter See, and Berlin, also later on at Paris from whence his fame spread rapidly over Europe, changed his realism to pessimism.”

from whence preposition + adverb

In this reading “Life's vicissitudes at Vierwaldstätter See, and Berlin, also later on at Paris from whence his fame spread rapidly over Europe, changed his realism to pessimism.”

called forth verb + particle counted as “call forth”

evoke or provoke to appear or occur

In this reading “His intrepid sarcasm which emanated from a physical disability, known only to a few of his most intimate friends, called forth severe criticism from the old aristocrats and the conservative element, which drove the gifted dramatist from his own country to new spheres.”

own country verb + noun

In this reading “His intrepid sarcasm which emanated from a physical disability, known only to a few of his most intimate friends, called forth severe criticism from the old aristocrats and the conservative element, which drove the gifted dramatist from his own country to new spheres.”

new style adjective + noun

In this reading “PREFACE August Strindberg's first literary productions were warmly received, and would have aroused lasting enthusiasm and admiration had the young author's prolific pen been less aggressive, in this, for his country, a totally new style of novel.”

All words in this reading · 108

Every word in these five lines is listed here, and every one of them can be played on its own.

Dictionary details are shown only when verified; these are not licensed Oxford entries.

adeterminerUS /ə/

used before a singular noun to mean one of a group, when it is not a particular one

From this reading PREFACE August Strindberg's first literary productions were warmly received, and would have aroused lasting enthusiasm and admiration had the young author's prolific pen been less aggressive, in this, for his country, a totally new style of novel.

activitiesnounUS /ækˈtɪvətiz/

plural of “activity” — any specific behavior

From this reading After years of ceaseless work, during which he dipped into almost every branch of science, he suddenly determined to transfer his activities to this side of the Atlantic, where he was desirous of becoming known.

admirationnounUS /ˌædmərˈeɪʃən/

a feeling of delighted approval and liking

From this reading PREFACE August Strindberg's first literary productions were warmly received, and would have aroused lasting enthusiasm and admiration had the young author's prolific pen been less aggressive, in this, for his country, a totally new style of novel.

AfterprepositionUS /ˈæftər/

later than; following

From this reading After years of ceaseless work, during which he dipped into almost every branch of science, he suddenly determined to transfer his activities to this side of the Atlantic, where he was desirous of becoming known.

aggressiveadjectiveUS /əˈɡresɪv/

having or showing determination and energetic pursuit of your ends

From this reading PREFACE August Strindberg's first literary productions were warmly received, and would have aroused lasting enthusiasm and admiration had the young author's prolific pen been less aggressive, in this, for his country, a totally new style of novel.

almostadverbUS /ˈɔːlmoʊst/

(of actions or states) slightly short of or not quite accomplished; all but

From this reading After years of ceaseless work, during which he dipped into almost every branch of science, he suddenly determined to transfer his activities to this side of the Atlantic, where he was desirous of becoming known.

alsoadverbUS /ˈɔːlsoʊ/

in addition

From this reading Life's vicissitudes at Vierwaldstätter See, and Berlin, also later on at Paris from whence his fame spread rapidly over Europe, changed his realism to pessimism.

andconjunctionUS /ənd/

used to join words or parts of a sentence that go together

From this reading PREFACE August Strindberg's first literary productions were warmly received, and would have aroused lasting enthusiasm and admiration had the young author's prolific pen been less aggressive, in this, for his country, a totally new style of novel.

aristocratsnounUS /ərˈɪstəkræts/

plural of “aristocrat” — a member of the aristocracy

From this reading His intrepid sarcasm which emanated from a physical disability, known only to a few of his most intimate friends, called forth severe criticism from the old aristocrats and the conservative element, which drove the gifted dramatist from his own country to new spheres.

arousedadjectiveUS /ərˈaʊzd/

aroused to action

From this reading PREFACE August Strindberg's first literary productions were warmly received, and would have aroused lasting enthusiasm and admiration had the young author's prolific pen been less aggressive, in this, for his country, a totally new style of novel.

atprepositionUS /æt/

in or near a particular place or position

From this reading Life's vicissitudes at Vierwaldstätter See, and Berlin, also later on at Paris from whence his fame spread rapidly over Europe, changed his realism to pessimism.

AtlanticnounUS /ətˈlæntɪk/

the 2nd largest ocean; separates North and South America on the west from Europe and Africa on the east

From this reading After years of ceaseless work, during which he dipped into almost every branch of science, he suddenly determined to transfer his activities to this side of the Atlantic, where he was desirous of becoming known.

AugustnounUS /ˈɑːɡəst/

the month following July and preceding September

From this reading PREFACE August Strindberg's first literary productions were warmly received, and would have aroused lasting enthusiasm and admiration had the young author's prolific pen been less aggressive, in this, for his country, a totally new style of novel.

author'snounUS /ˈɔːθərz/

possessive form of “author” — writes (books or stories or articles or the like) professionally (for pay)

From this reading PREFACE August Strindberg's first literary productions were warmly received, and would have aroused lasting enthusiasm and admiration had the young author's prolific pen been less aggressive, in this, for his country, a totally new style of novel.

becomingadjectiveUS /bɪˈkʌmɪŋ/

according with custom or propriety

From this reading After years of ceaseless work, during which he dipped into almost every branch of science, he suddenly determined to transfer his activities to this side of the Atlantic, where he was desirous of becoming known.

beenauxiliary verbUS /bɪn/

the past participle of “be”

From this reading PREFACE August Strindberg's first literary productions were warmly received, and would have aroused lasting enthusiasm and admiration had the young author's prolific pen been less aggressive, in this, for his country, a totally new style of novel.

BerlinnounUS /bərˈlɪn/

capital of Germany located in eastern Germany

From this reading Life's vicissitudes at Vierwaldstätter See, and Berlin, also later on at Paris from whence his fame spread rapidly over Europe, changed his realism to pessimism.

branchnounUS /bræntʃ/

a division of some larger or more complex organization

From this reading After years of ceaseless work, during which he dipped into almost every branch of science, he suddenly determined to transfer his activities to this side of the Atlantic, where he was desirous of becoming known.

calledverbUS /kɔːld/

past form of “call” — assign a specified (usually proper) proper name to

From this reading His intrepid sarcasm which emanated from a physical disability, known only to a few of his most intimate friends, called forth severe criticism from the old aristocrats and the conservative element, which drove the gifted dramatist from his own country to new spheres.

ceaselessadjectiveUS /ˈsiːslɪs/

uninterrupted in time and indefinitely long continuing

From this reading After years of ceaseless work, during which he dipped into almost every branch of science, he suddenly determined to transfer his activities to this side of the Atlantic, where he was desirous of becoming known.

changedadjectiveUS /tʃeɪndʒd/

made or become different in nature or form

From this reading Life's vicissitudes at Vierwaldstätter See, and Berlin, also later on at Paris from whence his fame spread rapidly over Europe, changed his realism to pessimism.

conservativeadjectiveUS /kənˈsɜːrvətɪv/

resistant to change, particularly in relation to politics or religion

From this reading His intrepid sarcasm which emanated from a physical disability, known only to a few of his most intimate friends, called forth severe criticism from the old aristocrats and the conservative element, which drove the gifted dramatist from his own country to new spheres.

countrynounUS /ˈkʌntri/

a politically organized body of people under a single government

From this reading PREFACE August Strindberg's first literary productions were warmly received, and would have aroused lasting enthusiasm and admiration had the young author's prolific pen been less aggressive, in this, for his country, a totally new style of novel.

criticismnounUS /ˈkrɪtɪsɪzəm/

disapproval expressed by pointing out faults or shortcomings

From this reading His intrepid sarcasm which emanated from a physical disability, known only to a few of his most intimate friends, called forth severe criticism from the old aristocrats and the conservative element, which drove the gifted dramatist from his own country to new spheres.

desirousadjectiveUS /dɪˈzaɪrəs/

having or expressing desire for something

From this reading After years of ceaseless work, during which he dipped into almost every branch of science, he suddenly determined to transfer his activities to this side of the Atlantic, where he was desirous of becoming known.

determinedadjectiveUS /dɪˈtɜːrmənd/

characterized by great determination

From this reading After years of ceaseless work, during which he dipped into almost every branch of science, he suddenly determined to transfer his activities to this side of the Atlantic, where he was desirous of becoming known.

dippedadjectiveUS /dɪpt/

having abnormal sagging of the spine (especially in horses)

From this reading After years of ceaseless work, during which he dipped into almost every branch of science, he suddenly determined to transfer his activities to this side of the Atlantic, where he was desirous of becoming known.

disabilitynounUS /ˌdɪsəˈbɪlɪti/

the condition of being unable to perform as a consequence of physical or mental unfitness

From this reading His intrepid sarcasm which emanated from a physical disability, known only to a few of his most intimate friends, called forth severe criticism from the old aristocrats and the conservative element, which drove the gifted dramatist from his own country to new spheres.

dramatistnounUS /ˈdrɑːmətɪst/

someone who writes plays

From this reading His intrepid sarcasm which emanated from a physical disability, known only to a few of his most intimate friends, called forth severe criticism from the old aristocrats and the conservative element, which drove the gifted dramatist from his own country to new spheres.

drovenounUS /droʊv/

a group of animals (a herd or flock) moving together

From this reading His intrepid sarcasm which emanated from a physical disability, known only to a few of his most intimate friends, called forth severe criticism from the old aristocrats and the conservative element, which drove the gifted dramatist from his own country to new spheres.

duringprepositionUS /ˈdʊrɪŋ/

all through a period, or at some point within it

From this reading After years of ceaseless work, during which he dipped into almost every branch of science, he suddenly determined to transfer his activities to this side of the Atlantic, where he was desirous of becoming known.

EASTERnounUS /ˈiːstər/

a Christian celebration of the Resurrection of Christ; celebrated on the Sunday following the first full moon after the vernal equinox

From this reading EASTER, LUCKY PEHR, ETC.

elementnounUS /ˈeləmənt/

an abstract part of something

From this reading His intrepid sarcasm which emanated from a physical disability, known only to a few of his most intimate friends, called forth severe criticism from the old aristocrats and the conservative element, which drove the gifted dramatist from his own country to new spheres.

emanatedverbUS /ˈeməneɪtɪd/

past form of “emanate” — proceed or issue forth, as from a source

From this reading His intrepid sarcasm which emanated from a physical disability, known only to a few of his most intimate friends, called forth severe criticism from the old aristocrats and the conservative element, which drove the gifted dramatist from his own country to new spheres.

enthusiasmnounUS /ɪnˈθuːziæzəm/

a feeling of excitement

From this reading PREFACE August Strindberg's first literary productions were warmly received, and would have aroused lasting enthusiasm and admiration had the young author's prolific pen been less aggressive, in this, for his country, a totally new style of novel.

ETC

Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.

From this reading EASTER, LUCKY PEHR, ETC.

EuropenounUS /ˈjʊrəp/

the 2nd smallest continent (actually a vast peninsula of Eurasia); the British use “Europe” to refer to all of the continent except the British Isles

From this reading Life's vicissitudes at Vierwaldstätter See, and Berlin, also later on at Paris from whence his fame spread rapidly over Europe, changed his realism to pessimism.

everydeterminerUS /ˈevəri/

all the members of a group, with none left out

From this reading After years of ceaseless work, during which he dipped into almost every branch of science, he suddenly determined to transfer his activities to this side of the Atlantic, where he was desirous of becoming known.

famenounUS /feɪm/

the state or quality of being widely honored and acclaimed

From this reading Life's vicissitudes at Vierwaldstätter See, and Berlin, also later on at Paris from whence his fame spread rapidly over Europe, changed his realism to pessimism.

fewadjectiveUS /fjuː/

a quantifier that can be used with count nouns and is often preceded by “a”; a small but indefinite number

From this reading His intrepid sarcasm which emanated from a physical disability, known only to a few of his most intimate friends, called forth severe criticism from the old aristocrats and the conservative element, which drove the gifted dramatist from his own country to new spheres.

firstadjectiveUS /fɜːrst/

preceding all others in time or space or degree

From this reading PREFACE August Strindberg's first literary productions were warmly received, and would have aroused lasting enthusiasm and admiration had the young author's prolific pen been less aggressive, in this, for his country, a totally new style of novel.

forprepositionUS /fɔːr/

intended to be given to, or used by, somebody

From this reading PREFACE August Strindberg's first literary productions were warmly received, and would have aroused lasting enthusiasm and admiration had the young author's prolific pen been less aggressive, in this, for his country, a totally new style of novel.

forthadverbUS /fɔːrθ/

from a particular thing or place or position (“forth” is obsolete)

From this reading His intrepid sarcasm which emanated from a physical disability, known only to a few of his most intimate friends, called forth severe criticism from the old aristocrats and the conservative element, which drove the gifted dramatist from his own country to new spheres.

friendsnounUS /frendz/

plural of “friend” — a person you know well and regard with affection and trust

From this reading His intrepid sarcasm which emanated from a physical disability, known only to a few of his most intimate friends, called forth severe criticism from the old aristocrats and the conservative element, which drove the gifted dramatist from his own country to new spheres.

fromprepositionUS /frʌm/

showing where something starts, or who sent it

From this reading His intrepid sarcasm which emanated from a physical disability, known only to a few of his most intimate friends, called forth severe criticism from the old aristocrats and the conservative element, which drove the gifted dramatist from his own country to new spheres.

giftedadjectiveUS /ˈɡɪftəd/

endowed with talent or talents

From this reading His intrepid sarcasm which emanated from a physical disability, known only to a few of his most intimate friends, called forth severe criticism from the old aristocrats and the conservative element, which drove the gifted dramatist from his own country to new spheres.

hadauxiliary verbUS /hæd/

the past form of “have”, used to form the past perfect

From this reading PREFACE August Strindberg's first literary productions were warmly received, and would have aroused lasting enthusiasm and admiration had the young author's prolific pen been less aggressive, in this, for his country, a totally new style of novel.

haveauxiliary verbUS /hæv/

used with a past participle to form the perfect tenses

From this reading PREFACE August Strindberg's first literary productions were warmly received, and would have aroused lasting enthusiasm and admiration had the young author's prolific pen been less aggressive, in this, for his country, a totally new style of novel.

hepronounUS /hiː/

a man, boy, or male animal already mentioned, as the subject

From this reading After years of ceaseless work, during which he dipped into almost every branch of science, he suddenly determined to transfer his activities to this side of the Atlantic, where he was desirous of becoming known.

hisdeterminerUS /hɪz/

belonging to a man, boy, or male animal already mentioned

From this reading PREFACE August Strindberg's first literary productions were warmly received, and would have aroused lasting enthusiasm and admiration had the young author's prolific pen been less aggressive, in this, for his country, a totally new style of novel.

inprepositionUS /ɪn/

inside something, or within a place, period, or state

From this reading PREFACE August Strindberg's first literary productions were warmly received, and would have aroused lasting enthusiasm and admiration had the young author's prolific pen been less aggressive, in this, for his country, a totally new style of novel.

intimateadjectiveUS /ˈɪntəmət/

marked by close acquaintance, association, or familiarity

From this reading His intrepid sarcasm which emanated from a physical disability, known only to a few of his most intimate friends, called forth severe criticism from the old aristocrats and the conservative element, which drove the gifted dramatist from his own country to new spheres.

intoprepositionUS /ˈɪntuː/

moving to the inside of something

From this reading After years of ceaseless work, during which he dipped into almost every branch of science, he suddenly determined to transfer his activities to this side of the Atlantic, where he was desirous of becoming known.

intrepidadjectiveUS /ɪnˈtrepəd/

invulnerable to fear or intimidation

From this reading His intrepid sarcasm which emanated from a physical disability, known only to a few of his most intimate friends, called forth severe criticism from the old aristocrats and the conservative element, which drove the gifted dramatist from his own country to new spheres.

knownadjectiveUS /noʊn/

apprehended with certainty

From this reading His intrepid sarcasm which emanated from a physical disability, known only to a few of his most intimate friends, called forth severe criticism from the old aristocrats and the conservative element, which drove the gifted dramatist from his own country to new spheres.

lastingadjectiveUS /ˈlæstɪŋ/

continuing or enduring without marked change in status or condition or place

From this reading PREFACE August Strindberg's first literary productions were warmly received, and would have aroused lasting enthusiasm and admiration had the young author's prolific pen been less aggressive, in this, for his country, a totally new style of novel.

lateradverbUS /ˈleɪtər/

happening at a time subsequent to a reference time

From this reading Life's vicissitudes at Vierwaldstätter See, and Berlin, also later on at Paris from whence his fame spread rapidly over Europe, changed his realism to pessimism.

lessadverbUS /les/

used to form the comparative of some adjectives and adverbs

From this reading PREFACE August Strindberg's first literary productions were warmly received, and would have aroused lasting enthusiasm and admiration had the young author's prolific pen been less aggressive, in this, for his country, a totally new style of novel.

Life'snounUS /laɪfs/

possessive form of “life” — a characteristic state or mode of living

From this reading Life's vicissitudes at Vierwaldstätter See, and Berlin, also later on at Paris from whence his fame spread rapidly over Europe, changed his realism to pessimism.

literaryadjectiveUS /ˈlɪtəreri/

of or relating to or characteristic of literature

From this reading PREFACE August Strindberg's first literary productions were warmly received, and would have aroused lasting enthusiasm and admiration had the young author's prolific pen been less aggressive, in this, for his country, a totally new style of novel.

LUCKYadjectiveUS /ˈlʌki/

occurring by chance

From this reading EASTER, LUCKY PEHR, ETC.

mostadverbUS /moʊst/

used to form the superlative

From this reading His intrepid sarcasm which emanated from a physical disability, known only to a few of his most intimate friends, called forth severe criticism from the old aristocrats and the conservative element, which drove the gifted dramatist from his own country to new spheres.

newadjectiveUS /nuː/

not of long duration; having just (or relatively recently) come into being or been made or acquired or discovered

From this reading PREFACE August Strindberg's first literary productions were warmly received, and would have aroused lasting enthusiasm and admiration had the young author's prolific pen been less aggressive, in this, for his country, a totally new style of novel.

novelnounUS /ˈnɑːvəl/

an extended fictional work in prose; usually in the form of a story

From this reading PREFACE August Strindberg's first literary productions were warmly received, and would have aroused lasting enthusiasm and admiration had the young author's prolific pen been less aggressive, in this, for his country, a totally new style of novel.

ofprepositionUS /ʌv/

belonging to, or connected with, somebody or something

From this reading PREFACE August Strindberg's first literary productions were warmly received, and would have aroused lasting enthusiasm and admiration had the young author's prolific pen been less aggressive, in this, for his country, a totally new style of novel.

oldadjectiveUS /oʊld/

(used especially of persons) having lived for a relatively long time or attained a specific age

From this reading His intrepid sarcasm which emanated from a physical disability, known only to a few of his most intimate friends, called forth severe criticism from the old aristocrats and the conservative element, which drove the gifted dramatist from his own country to new spheres.

onprepositionUS /ɑːn/

touching and supported by a surface

From this reading Life's vicissitudes at Vierwaldstätter See, and Berlin, also later on at Paris from whence his fame spread rapidly over Europe, changed his realism to pessimism.

onlyadverbUS /ˈoʊnli/

and nothing more

From this reading His intrepid sarcasm which emanated from a physical disability, known only to a few of his most intimate friends, called forth severe criticism from the old aristocrats and the conservative element, which drove the gifted dramatist from his own country to new spheres.

overprepositionUS /ˈoʊvər/

above and across; more than

From this reading Life's vicissitudes at Vierwaldstätter See, and Berlin, also later on at Paris from whence his fame spread rapidly over Europe, changed his realism to pessimism.

ownverbUS /oʊn/

have ownership or possession of

From this reading His intrepid sarcasm which emanated from a physical disability, known only to a few of his most intimate friends, called forth severe criticism from the old aristocrats and the conservative element, which drove the gifted dramatist from his own country to new spheres.

ParisnounUS /ˈperɪs/

the capital and largest city of France; and international center of culture and commerce

From this reading Life's vicissitudes at Vierwaldstätter See, and Berlin, also later on at Paris from whence his fame spread rapidly over Europe, changed his realism to pessimism.

PEHR

Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.

From this reading EASTER, LUCKY PEHR, ETC.

pennounUS /pen/

a writing implement with a point from which ink flows

From this reading PREFACE August Strindberg's first literary productions were warmly received, and would have aroused lasting enthusiasm and admiration had the young author's prolific pen been less aggressive, in this, for his country, a totally new style of novel.

pessimismnounUS /ˈpesəmɪzəm/

the feeling that things will turn out badly

From this reading Life's vicissitudes at Vierwaldstätter See, and Berlin, also later on at Paris from whence his fame spread rapidly over Europe, changed his realism to pessimism.

physicaladjectiveUS /ˈfɪzɪkəl/

involving the body as distinguished from the mind or spirit

From this reading His intrepid sarcasm which emanated from a physical disability, known only to a few of his most intimate friends, called forth severe criticism from the old aristocrats and the conservative element, which drove the gifted dramatist from his own country to new spheres.

PREFACEnounUS /ˈprefəs/

a short introductory essay preceding the text of a book

From this reading PREFACE August Strindberg's first literary productions were warmly received, and would have aroused lasting enthusiasm and admiration had the young author's prolific pen been less aggressive, in this, for his country, a totally new style of novel.

productionsnounUS /prəˈdʌkʃənz/

plural of “production” — the act or process of producing something

From this reading PREFACE August Strindberg's first literary productions were warmly received, and would have aroused lasting enthusiasm and admiration had the young author's prolific pen been less aggressive, in this, for his country, a totally new style of novel.

prolificadjectiveUS /proʊˈlɪfɪk/

intellectually productive

From this reading PREFACE August Strindberg's first literary productions were warmly received, and would have aroused lasting enthusiasm and admiration had the young author's prolific pen been less aggressive, in this, for his country, a totally new style of novel.

rapidlyadverbUS /ˈræpədli/

with speed

From this reading Life's vicissitudes at Vierwaldstätter See, and Berlin, also later on at Paris from whence his fame spread rapidly over Europe, changed his realism to pessimism.

realismnounUS /ˈriːəlɪzəm/

the attribute of accepting the facts of life and favoring practicality and literal truth

From this reading Life's vicissitudes at Vierwaldstätter See, and Berlin, also later on at Paris from whence his fame spread rapidly over Europe, changed his realism to pessimism.

receivedadjectiveUS /rəˈsiːvd/

conforming to the established language usage of educated native speakers

From this reading PREFACE August Strindberg's first literary productions were warmly received, and would have aroused lasting enthusiasm and admiration had the young author's prolific pen been less aggressive, in this, for his country, a totally new style of novel.

sarcasmnounUS /ˈsɑːrkæzəm/

witty language used to convey insults or scorn

From this reading His intrepid sarcasm which emanated from a physical disability, known only to a few of his most intimate friends, called forth severe criticism from the old aristocrats and the conservative element, which drove the gifted dramatist from his own country to new spheres.

sciencenounUS /ˈsaɪəns/

a particular branch of scientific knowledge

From this reading After years of ceaseless work, during which he dipped into almost every branch of science, he suddenly determined to transfer his activities to this side of the Atlantic, where he was desirous of becoming known.

SeeverbUS /siː/

perceive by sight or have the power to perceive by sight

From this reading Life's vicissitudes at Vierwaldstätter See, and Berlin, also later on at Paris from whence his fame spread rapidly over Europe, changed his realism to pessimism.

severeadjectiveUS /səˈvɪr/

intensely or extremely bad or unpleasant in degree or quality

From this reading His intrepid sarcasm which emanated from a physical disability, known only to a few of his most intimate friends, called forth severe criticism from the old aristocrats and the conservative element, which drove the gifted dramatist from his own country to new spheres.

sidenounUS /saɪd/

a place within a region identified relative to a center or reference location

From this reading After years of ceaseless work, during which he dipped into almost every branch of science, he suddenly determined to transfer his activities to this side of the Atlantic, where he was desirous of becoming known.

spheresnounUS /sfɪrz/

plural of “sphere” — a particular environment or walk of life

From this reading His intrepid sarcasm which emanated from a physical disability, known only to a few of his most intimate friends, called forth severe criticism from the old aristocrats and the conservative element, which drove the gifted dramatist from his own country to new spheres.

spreadverbUS /spred/

distribute or disperse widely

From this reading Life's vicissitudes at Vierwaldstätter See, and Berlin, also later on at Paris from whence his fame spread rapidly over Europe, changed his realism to pessimism.

Strindberg's

Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.

From this reading PREFACE August Strindberg's first literary productions were warmly received, and would have aroused lasting enthusiasm and admiration had the young author's prolific pen been less aggressive, in this, for his country, a totally new style of novel.

stylenounUS /staɪl/

how something is done or how it happens

From this reading PREFACE August Strindberg's first literary productions were warmly received, and would have aroused lasting enthusiasm and admiration had the young author's prolific pen been less aggressive, in this, for his country, a totally new style of novel.

suddenlyadverbUS /ˈsʌdənli/

happening unexpectedly

From this reading After years of ceaseless work, during which he dipped into almost every branch of science, he suddenly determined to transfer his activities to this side of the Atlantic, where he was desirous of becoming known.

thedeterminerUS /ðə/

used before a noun that is already known, already mentioned, or the only one of its kind

From this reading PREFACE August Strindberg's first literary productions were warmly received, and would have aroused lasting enthusiasm and admiration had the young author's prolific pen been less aggressive, in this, for his country, a totally new style of novel.

thisdeterminerUS /ðɪs/

used for a person or thing that is near, or that has just been mentioned

From this reading PREFACE August Strindberg's first literary productions were warmly received, and would have aroused lasting enthusiasm and admiration had the young author's prolific pen been less aggressive, in this, for his country, a totally new style of novel.

toparticleUS /tuː/

used before the base form of a verb to make the infinitive

From this reading His intrepid sarcasm which emanated from a physical disability, known only to a few of his most intimate friends, called forth severe criticism from the old aristocrats and the conservative element, which drove the gifted dramatist from his own country to new spheres.

totallyadverbUS /ˈtoʊtəli/

to a complete degree or to the full or entire extent (“whole” is often used informally for “wholly”)

From this reading PREFACE August Strindberg's first literary productions were warmly received, and would have aroused lasting enthusiasm and admiration had the young author's prolific pen been less aggressive, in this, for his country, a totally new style of novel.

transferverbUS /trænˈsfɜːr/

transfer somebody to a different position or location of work

From this reading After years of ceaseless work, during which he dipped into almost every branch of science, he suddenly determined to transfer his activities to this side of the Atlantic, where he was desirous of becoming known.

vicissitudesnounUS /vɪˈsɪsɪtuːdz/

plural of “vicissitude” — a variation in circumstances or fortune at different times in your life or in the development of something

From this reading Life's vicissitudes at Vierwaldstätter See, and Berlin, also later on at Paris from whence his fame spread rapidly over Europe, changed his realism to pessimism.

Vierwaldstätter

Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.

From this reading Life's vicissitudes at Vierwaldstätter See, and Berlin, also later on at Paris from whence his fame spread rapidly over Europe, changed his realism to pessimism.

warmlyadverbUS /ˈwɔːrmli/

in a hearty manner

From this reading PREFACE August Strindberg's first literary productions were warmly received, and would have aroused lasting enthusiasm and admiration had the young author's prolific pen been less aggressive, in this, for his country, a totally new style of novel.

wasauxiliary verbUS /wɑːz/

the past form of “be” used with I, he, she, it, or a singular noun

From this reading After years of ceaseless work, during which he dipped into almost every branch of science, he suddenly determined to transfer his activities to this side of the Atlantic, where he was desirous of becoming known.

wereauxiliary verbUS /wɜːr/

the past form of “be” used with you, we, they, or a plural noun

From this reading PREFACE August Strindberg's first literary productions were warmly received, and would have aroused lasting enthusiasm and admiration had the young author's prolific pen been less aggressive, in this, for his country, a totally new style of novel.

whenceadverbUS /wens/

an old word meaning “from where”

From this reading Life's vicissitudes at Vierwaldstätter See, and Berlin, also later on at Paris from whence his fame spread rapidly over Europe, changed his realism to pessimism.

whereconjunctionUS /wer/

in or at the place that

From this reading After years of ceaseless work, during which he dipped into almost every branch of science, he suddenly determined to transfer his activities to this side of the Atlantic, where he was desirous of becoming known.

whichpronounUS /wɪtʃ/

used to introduce a clause giving more about a thing just mentioned

From this reading His intrepid sarcasm which emanated from a physical disability, known only to a few of his most intimate friends, called forth severe criticism from the old aristocrats and the conservative element, which drove the gifted dramatist from his own country to new spheres.

workverbUS /wɜːrk/

exert oneself by doing mental or physical work for a purpose or out of necessity

From this reading After years of ceaseless work, during which he dipped into almost every branch of science, he suddenly determined to transfer his activities to this side of the Atlantic, where he was desirous of becoming known.

wouldmodal verbUS /wʊd/

used for something imagined, polite, or habitual in the past

From this reading PREFACE August Strindberg's first literary productions were warmly received, and would have aroused lasting enthusiasm and admiration had the young author's prolific pen been less aggressive, in this, for his country, a totally new style of novel.

yearsnounUS /jɪrz/

a late time of life

From this reading After years of ceaseless work, during which he dipped into almost every branch of science, he suddenly determined to transfer his activities to this side of the Atlantic, where he was desirous of becoming known.

youngadjectiveUS /jʌŋ/

(used of living things especially persons) in an early period of life or development or growth

From this reading PREFACE August Strindberg's first literary productions were warmly received, and would have aroused lasting enthusiasm and admiration had the young author's prolific pen been less aggressive, in this, for his country, a totally new style of novel.

Chapter 1 of On the Seaboard by August Strindberg holds 468 sentences, grouped into 94 reading sections of at most 5 sentences. The text is the source edition, unabridged, and the chapter records which sentences cover which part of the work so that nothing is dropped. Every word can be tapped for its pronunciation and dictionary entry.

What does chapter 1 of On the Seaboard contain?

Chapter 1 holds 468 sentences of On the Seaboard, unabridged, divided into 94 reading sections.

This page carries chapter 1 of On the Seaboard by August Strindberg exactly as it stands in the source edition, without abridgement. It runs to 468 sentences, grouped into 94 sections of at most 5 sentences so that a reader can take the chapter in steady, finishable pieces. The chapter also stores a coverage record mapping every one of its sentences to a part of the work, which is how the edition demonstrates that no line was dropped.

How do I study chapter 1 of On the Seaboard?

Work through the 94 sections in order, replaying any sentence and tapping unfamiliar words for their entries.

Each of the 94 sections in this chapter is short enough to read once, hear once, and then re-read with the vocabulary in view. Tapping a word plays it alone and opens its dictionary entry with IPA, part of speech and meaning, so the reader is never forced to guess a pronunciation from spelling. Working section by section keeps a long chapter from becoming an undifferentiated wall of text, which is the usual reason a reader abandons a work of this period.

Can chapter 1 be read aloud to me?

Yes — every sentence and every individual word in chapter 1 can be played aloud in United States English.

Audio covers the whole chapter: any sentence can be played, and any single word within it can be played on its own. The voice uses United States English. For a work of this period that matters, because spelling is an unreliable guide to pronunciation for vocabulary that has fallen out of daily use, and a learner who guesses wrong tends to keep the error. Hearing the word in its own sentence, and then alone, settles it.

Questions about reading On the Seaboard

Common questions about reading On the Seaboard by August Strindberg on this page, its source edition and its audio.

Is this the complete text of On the Seaboard?

Yes. All 2328 sentences of Project Gutenberg eBook #44184 are kept, with a record of which sentences cover which part.

Which edition of On the Seaboard is used?

Project Gutenberg eBook #44184, unabridged. The Project Gutenberg header, footer and licence are removed.

How long does On the Seaboard take to read?

About 194 minutes of reading across 466 sections of 5 sentences each, at an unhurried pace.

How to read On the Seaboard section by section

How to work through On the Seaboard section by section, using the audio and the tap-to-define vocabulary.

  1. Open a chapter

    Choose one of the 5 chapters of On the Seaboard to begin.

  2. Read one section

    Each section holds 5 sentences; read it once through.

  3. Listen and tap

    Play the section aloud, then tap any unfamiliar word for its entry.

Vocabulary met early in On the Seaboard

Words and structures a reader meets early in On the Seaboard, each tappable for pronunciation and meaning.

Easter
A word that appears in the opening chapter of On the Seaboard; the reader can tap it to hear it and see its dictionary entry.
Lucky
A word that appears in the opening chapter of On the Seaboard; the reader can tap it to hear it and see its dictionary entry.
Preface
A word that appears in the opening chapter of On the Seaboard; the reader can tap it to hear it and see its dictionary entry.
August
A word that appears in the opening chapter of On the Seaboard; the reader can tap it to hear it and see its dictionary entry.