True to his Colours

'True to His Colours' by Theodore P. Wilson is a poignant reflection on the clash between tradition and progress, set in the late 19th century. The story begins in the small, peaceful village of Crossbourne, which is undergoing a profound transformation as it evolves into a bustling industrial town. The opening vividly contrasts the idyllic simplicity of village life with the encroaching challenges of modernity, particularly the moral decay and social upheaval brought on by rapid industrialization. Alcoholism becomes a pervasive issue, and the arrival of new industries begins to erode the close-knit, community-oriented spirit of the town. Amid this transition, the novel introduces William Foster and his wife Kate. As the novel unfolds, the story explores how the industrial boom not only reshapes Crossbourne physically but also tests the moral compass of its inhabitants, especially William, who grapples with his own role in a world increasingly dominated by materialism and vice. Through his internal struggle, Wilson examines themes of integrity, redemption, and the importance of remaining 'true to one’s colours' amidst the growing chaos of the modern world.