A curse dark as gold is a powerful and haunting theme often found in literature, particularly in fairy tales and folklore. It represents a malevolent force that brings despair, misfortune, and tragedy to those who encounter it. This curse, often described as "dark as gold," possesses an ominous and pervasive presence that lingers over its victims. It casts a shadow on their lives, tarnishing their happiness and causing their fortunes to crumble. The curse may manifest itself in various forms, depending on the specific narrative or legend, but its effects are always devastating. The curse dark as gold serves as a driving force in many stories, propelling the plot forward and creating a sense of unease and danger.
And then, when all seems like it must be lost and that perhaps the mill will have to be sold after all, a strange man named Jack Spinner appears and offers to spin straw into gold, all for the low cost of a single fake pearl ring. Bewildered, but desperate, Charlotte agrees and the mill is saved for the moment.
I know some people have thought it dragged a bit, and I can see the validity in those complaints, but I loved every moment of A Curse Dark as Gold and was glad it didn t rush toward the ending. Charlotte learns that for generations, the Miller family has struck a deal with Jack Spinner he can have the souls of their firstborn males if he will provide ample tree growth around their town timber was an essential commodity as well as gold a material they weave into their textiles, hence their glistening appearance.
The curse dark as gold serves as a driving force in many stories, propelling the plot forward and creating a sense of unease and danger. Its presence is often felt in the form of a foreboding prophecy or a wicked enchantment that cannot be broken. The characters are haunted by the curse's consequences, and they must confront their fears and make difficult choices to overcome its grip.
A CURSE DARK AS GOLD
In a hefty, thoughtful Rumpelstiltskin tale, Charlotte Miller fights and strains and sacrifices to embody her surname. The Miller family runs Stirwaters, a river-powered textile mill in a pre-industrial village. It’s been passed down haphazardly because no Miller son ever lives to inherit it. Charlotte and sister Rosie take over upon their father’s death, but troubles persist. Non-superstitious Charlotte resists the idea of a family curse; she insists the ongoing destruction is simply bad luck and vandalism. A perfumed, dandy uncle arrives to wrest power away from the sisters. Bunce writes the mill as a character too, bound into the family “by loss and grief and vengeance.” As stubborn Charlotte fiercely defends Stirwaters against physical and financial ruin, misguided habits of secrecy and fear lead to a near-loss of her infant son to the Rumpelstiltskin figure, a classic tortured ghost from ages past. His origins unravel the tangled mystery. Slow pacing and a protagonist with infuriating secretiveness may deter some readers, but those who stick it out will find substance and beauty. (author’s note) (Fantasy. YA)
Pub Date: March 1, 2008
ISBN: 978-0-439-89576-7
Page Count: 422
Publisher: Levine/Scholastic
Review Posted Online: May 19, 2010
Kirkus Reviews Issue: Feb. 15, 2008
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The metaphorical aspect of the curse being described as "dark as gold" adds an intriguing layer to its portrayal. Gold is traditionally associated with wealth, power, and prosperity. However, in the context of this curse, it represents the deceptive allure and destructive nature of the curse. It deceives and seduces its victims with promises of riches and happiness, only to bring them ruin and despair. The theme of a curse dark as gold explores the inherent darkness and complexity of human desires and choices. It highlights the consequences of greed, obsession, and the pursuit of power, showcasing the destructive forces that can arise from unchecked ambition. Whether it is a tragic tale of a family cursed through generations or a cautionary story warning against the dangers of greed, a curse dark as gold captivates audiences with its blend of mystery, tragedy, and enchantment. It serves as a reminder of the fragile nature of happiness and the need for caution and self-reflection in the face of tempting but destructive forces. In conclusion, a curse dark as gold represents a malevolent force that brings despair and misfortune to those who encounter it. Its presence casts a shadow over the lives of its victims, tarnishing their happiness and causing their fortunes to crumble. Described as "dark as gold," this curse serves as a driving force in narratives, propelling the plot forward and creating an atmosphere of unease and danger. The curse's metaphorical nature adds complexity to its portrayal, highlighting the deceptive allure and destructive nature of human desires. Ultimately, the theme of a curse dark as gold explores the consequences of unchecked ambition and serves as a cautionary tale..
Reviews for "The exploration of family dynamics in 'A Curse Dark as Gold"
1. Emily - 2 stars: I was really excited to read "A Curse Dark as Gold" as I love fairy tale retellings. However, I found the book to be slow-paced and lacking in depth. The characters felt one-dimensional and their actions often felt forced. Additionally, the plot twists were predictable and didn't add any excitement to the story. Overall, I was left feeling disappointed and underwhelmed by this novel.
2. Jason - 1 star: I couldn't get into "A Curse Dark as Gold" at all. The writing style felt clunky and the pacing was incredibly slow. The characters felt flat and unrelatable, making it hard for me to be invested in their story. The supposed romance felt forced and lacked chemistry. The book had potential, but ultimately it fell short for me. I wouldn't recommend it to fans of fairy tale retellings.
3. Sarah - 2 stars: "A Curse Dark as Gold" had an interesting premise, but the execution was lacking. The main character, Charlotte, was difficult to connect with and her decision-making often left me frustrated. The plot dragged on for far too long and several scenes felt unnecessary. The book needed more action and excitement to keep me engaged. Overall, I found the book to be average at best and was left wanting more from the story.