This opening excerpt introduces the title character
and establishes the relationship between him and the medium in which he works.
An excerpt in which the narrator describes Drowne's
early interest in and work as a sculptor.
An excerpt that describes the transformation that
takes place in both Drowne and his carving as he works upon the block of wood.
An excerpt that presents a conversation exchanged
between Drowne and the painter John Singleton Copley, who is recognized as
a genuine artist. Copley offers backhanded praise to Drowne, but Drowne surprises
him by talking of the power of inspiration.
An excerpt that underscores the power of inspiration
to transform the block of wood into a work of art.
An excerpt in which Drowne still identifies himself with the woodcarver's
trade and not the sculptor's art.
The public's response to Drowne's exotic figure
is presented in this excerpt.
An excerpt in which the narrator remarks upon the public
suspicions regarding Drowne's statue and the view of his community that
distrusts or distances artists and dreamers.
An excerpt that presents a last conversation
between Drowne and Copley in which Drowne resigns himself to once again being
an adequate woodcarver rather than an inspired artist.
