In the heart of a small town during the early 20th century, the true protagonist is not Helen but the mill itself. This compelling tale explores the tumultuous themes of labor strife, class inequity, and the clash between socialism and capitalism, all woven through a narrative of love and hatred. At its core are two families—each with a father, son, and daughter—who share a close bond in their youth. As time unfolds, Helen’s family rises to wealth through dubious means, with her father embodying the worst of corporate greed as he takes control of the mill. Enter Jake Vodell, a passionate labor organizer labeled a “foreigner” and a communist, who ignites conflict. Amidst this struggle, the old, injured, and retired worker known as the Interpreter emerges as a key figure, striving to reveal that the true adversary lies not in labor or capital, but in the extremes of greed and socialism. This class conflict forms the backdrop of much of Harold Bell Wright’s work, illustrating the stark contrasts of progress in technology against the unchanging nature of human behavior. Summary by Bob Rollins.
