Jack London

John Barleycorn Jack London

A classic biography of Jack London as a drunk; it is most likely the first thoughtful analysis on alcoholism in Amreican literture. The novel is packed full with London's notorious adventures including his well known drinking career via the character known as John Barleycorn - a term even now given to alcohol just like the 'demon rum.' It is an incredible insight into London and alcoholism. It all came to me one election day. It was on a warm California afternoon, and I had ridden down into the Valley of the Moon from the ranch to the little village to vote Yes and No to a host of proposed amendments to the Constitution of the State of California. Because of the warmth of the day I had had several drinks before casting my ballot, and divers drinks after casting it. Then I had ridden up through the vine-clad hills and rolling pastures of the ranch, and arrived at the farm-house in time for another drink and supper.