THERE stands recorded in the Book of Time a fascinating legend of the Sun, whose golden throne allured but for the day; and when the day was ended in great glee he hurried forth beyond the broad horizon toward a secret trysting place. All his impassioned love, it is said, he poured upon the idol of his heart, the boundless plains. Long years were they alone, the Rolling Prairie and the Golden Sun, until at last they found themselves spied upon by curious Man, who, captivated by the beauty of the two, remained and blessed the tryst thereby. Here Sun and Soil and Man wrought out a work of art; and here Dame Nature smiled as was her wont, and brought rich gifts and blessings manifold. In sweet content Man's children toiled and wrought until upon the bosom of the sunlit plains there nestled close great fields and prosperous abodes. And since that time a ceaseless music steals throughout the land in wooing cadences, now crying out in weird and wandering tones, now softly soothing in sweet rhythmic chant. 'Tis the music of the wind within the corn—Iowa's Prairie Gold. It sang itself into the lonely heart of the pioneer with its promise of golden harvest; it became the cradle song of restless souls that even in their youth longed but to free themselves in verse and song; and down through all the prosperous years it steals like a sweet sustaining accompaniment to the countless activities which have builded a great commonwealth. He who has stood upon the hilltops in his youthful days and listened to the soft, alluring rustle of the wind-swayed leaves retains the music ever in his soul. It draws upon the heart-strings of the absent one, and like the constant singing of the sea insistent calls upon him to return. Today in spirit come we all to Time's sweet trysting place with story song and jest, to add sweet comfort to the braver ones whose paths lie wide before them, and whose return lies not within our willing. God grant that even in their pains their troubled souls may yet to music be attuned, may know again the solace of that sweetly floating song, the rustle of the wind within the corn.

Delve into the rich tapestry of Iowa through this anthology of short stories. 'Prairie Gold' paints a vivid portrait of the state, weaving tales that embody its spirit and essence. From heartfelt reflections to enchanting narratives, each story offers a unique perspective on Iowa's people, landscapes, and traditions. Step into the pages and explore the American Wake, witness the allure of Kamakura in 1917, and feel the call of the race. With contributions from esteemed authors such as Hamlin Garland and Honoré Willsie, this collection celebrates the beauty and diversity of Iowa's literary landscape.

Prairie Gold by Iowa Press and Authors' Club: "Prairie Gold" is a captivating anthology that showcases the literary talents of the Iowa Press and Authors' Club. The collection brings together a diverse range of stories and poems inspired by the beauty and essence of the American prairie. From vivid depictions of nature to insightful reflections on human experiences, "Prairie Gold" offers a rich tapestry of voices that celebrate the unique landscapes and emotions of the Midwest. Key Aspects of the Book "Prairie Gold": Iowa Literature: The anthology provides a glimpse into the literary traditions and talents that have flourished in Iowa. Nature and Landscape: The stories and poems paint evocative pictures of the prairie's vastness, beauty, and connection to the human spirit. Cultural and Emotional Themes: "Prairie Gold" explores themes of community, family, resilience, and the sense of belonging to a particular place. The Iowa Press and Authors' Club was a literary organization formed in Iowa during the late 19th century. The club played a significant role in promoting literature and fostering creativity in the state. Through their gatherings, discussions, and publications, the club contributed to the growth of Iowa's literary heritage and provided a platform for writers to share their work and ideas.

The American Midwest provides the ideal landscape for literature exploring the intricate evolution of American ideology and culture from the earliest frontiersmen and settlers to present day citizens. In celebration of this region's inherent importance to American identity, Prairie Gold: An Anthology of the American Heartland presents a myriad of Midwestern-focused literature in three sections of literary styles: fiction, nonfiction, and poetry with introductions contributed by admired and award-winning Midwestern authors: Dean Bakopoulos, Debra Marquart, and Iowa State Poet Laureate, Mary Swander. With an extensive roster of sixty-eight highly talented writers, this anthology presents an eclectic mix of short stories, flash fiction, lyric essays, autobiographies, and formal and experimental poems that delve into the nuances of Midwestern identity.