From Argyle Street is an ongoing exploration of literature, theology, and cocktails. If you’ve been forwarded this by someone else, why not sign up yourself?
20,000 Leagues Under The Sea
Our February selection is none other than 20,000 Leagues Under The Sea, a classic adventure novel that I feel has suffered greatly from inadequate branding.
Maybe it’s just me, but nearly every image I’ve ever encountered from the novel led me to believe it was about a submarine diving into the dark, dangerous depths of the ocean to battle some squid-like monstrosity.
Somehow, I was led astray…
Can you blame me? ¯\_(ツ)_/¯
It turns out the novel is something else altogether.
Jules Verne is considered the father of Science Fiction, and this is one of his classic works. In this novel, he predicted the invention of the submarine, using his writing to push past the boundaries of science in his day, daring it to try and catch up.
Which, in time, it did.
For that reason, the novel is a fascinating example of the relationship between science fiction and actual science. It demonstrates how the genre has occasionally led with imagination, casting vision for real scientists and engineers about what might truly exist one day. If they could only find a way to realize it.
The novel was released serially from 1869-1870, as one story within a set of travel-related adventure novels that Verne wrote. The set is called Extraordinary Voyages. It also includes Around the World in 80 Days and Journey to the Center of the Earth.
20,000 Leagues Under the Sea has always been considered one of Vernes’ pre-eminent works. For good reason. Because while it pushed the boundaries of science, it’s also a work that explores the true nature of freedom. What freedom is worth, what it costs, and the various forms it can arrive in.
I’m convinced that the novel seeks to delight us with the imaginative wonders of the sea that surrounds us, while simultaneously inviting us to consider what freedom truly means.
The French Connection
Jules Verne is a French author.
The French Connection is a French cocktail.
That’s the connection!
It’s a simple and delicious cocktail, tasting like maraschino cherries on the front end, with the sweet burn on brandy at the close. As you dive into the deep, watery depths of this Frenchman’s imagination, why not sip on a sweet cocktail that hails from his very own country as well.
Enjoy!
Recipe for a French Connection
1 1/2 oz. brandy
1 oz. Amaretto liquor
Steps
Add ice to a rocks glass.
Add all ingredients and stir to combine.
Enjoy!
Know someone who enjoys literature, theology, and cocktails? Share this post with them! Sharing helps build our community.
Until next time, enjoy your reading!
-Trevor
Related Articles
20,000 Leagues 2/4 - Story Structure
20,000 Leagues 3/4 - An Interpretation
20,0000 Leagues 4/4 - Theological Interaction