Life on the Mississippi, Part 12

Mark Twain's memoir captures his experiences as a steamboat pilot on the Mississippi River, blending personal anecdotes with historical insights. The narrative begins with the river's exploration history, starting with Hernando de Soto in 1542. Twain shares his training under veteran pilot Horace E. Bixby, offering a heartfelt portrayal of the art of navigation amidst the river's complexities. This work also serves as a travelogue, reflecting on Twain's journey from New Orleans to Saint Paul years after the Civil War, highlighting both nostalgia and the river's significance.