The Wild Palms Author:William Faulkner "The Wild Palms is composed of two vividly contrasting short novels. The first, giving its title to the volume, is one of Faulkner's most unforgettable creations, the story of two lovers who defy society's conventions in an intensely passionate, ultimately disastrous affair. The second, The Old Man, tells of a convict accidentally freed during a... more » Mississippi flood, struggling to save both himself and a pregnent woman whose fate has been thrust into his hands. Each of these works is brilliant in itself; and each gives added dimension to the other. Dramatically juxtaposed are the themes of proud rebellion and calm acceptance, fierce pursuit of individual destiny and deep-rooted harmony with the tidal forces of nature."« less