Based on one of the most significant periods in Frank Waterss own life, Pikes Peak is perhaps the most complete expression of all the archetypal themes he explored in both fiction and nonfiction.
In The Dust within the Rock, the third book in the Pikes Peak saga, an aging Joseph Rogier clings to his vision of finding gold in the great mountain and his grandson Marsh comes of age in the Rogier household. It is the early part of the twentieth century, in Colorado Springs, and the schoolhouse, the newsstand, the railroad, the mines, all become part of the younger mans emergence into adulthood and self-discovery.
Waterss powerful and intuitive style transforms the tale into a mythic journey, a search for meaning played out in the drama of everyday living on the vast American frontier.
Pikes Peak (1971) is composed of three condensed novels: The Wild Earths Nobility, Below Grass Roots, and The Dust within the Rock. Some years after its publication, an interviewer asked Frank Waters whether it was autobiographical. Yes, he replied, and no.
Dive into the heart of the American West with Frank Waters' *The Dust Within the Rock: A Novel (Volume 3) (Book III of the Pikes Peak Trilogy)*. This captivating paperback edition, published by Swallow Press, continues the sweeping saga of the Rogier family and their relentless pursuit of fortune and meaning against the backdrop of early 20th-century Colorado. Frank Waters, renowned for his insightful explorations of Native American culture, spirituality, and the human condition, draws heavily from his own life experiences in *Pike's Peak*, of which *The Dust Within the Rock* forms a crucial part. While Waters himself acknowledged the autobiographical elements, describing the saga as "yes, and no" in response to direct questioning, the novel transcends mere personal narrative. It transforms into a potent and enduring exploration of universal themes. In *The Dust Within the Rock*, we find Joseph Rogier, now aging, still fiercely committed to his dream of striking gold within Pike's Peak. His grandson, Marsh, navigates the complexities of adolescence within the Rogier household, his coming-of-age intricately interwoven with the burgeoning world around him. Colorado Springs in the early 1900s provides a vibrant and dynamic setting. The schoolhouse becomes a crucible of learning, the newsstand a window to the wider world, the railroad a symbol of progress and connection, and the mines a testament to human ambition and its consequences. Through Marsh's eyes, Waters masterfully paints a portrait of a rapidly changing America, grappling with industrialization, social shifts, and the enduring allure of the frontier. More than just a coming-of-age story, *The Dust Within the Rock* delves into the search for identity, the clash between tradition and modernity, and the enduring power of the human spirit to find meaning amidst hardship. Readers familiar with Waters' other works, such as *The Man Who Killed the Deer*, will recognize his signature blend of lyrical prose, profound philosophical insights, and deep reverence for the natural world. His ability to imbue everyday experiences with mythic significance elevates *The Dust Within the Rock* beyond a simple domestic drama or Western tale. It becomes a journey of self-discovery, a quest for understanding, and a meditation on the very essence of what it means to be human. This edition, a single-volume novel comprising the third part of the *Pike's Peak* trilogy, offers readers a complete and immersive experience. Whether you are a long-time admirer of Frank Waters or a newcomer to his work, *The Dust Within the Rock* promises a rewarding and unforgettable reading experience. It's a must-read for those interested in American literature, Western sagas, and stories of self-discovery set against the dramatic landscape of the American West. With 272 pages, this is a great addition to anyone looking for Modern Fiction, General Fiction, Short Stories or Novels.