The Desire for a Home: Individualism in Louis L’Amour’s Dark Canyon

Abstract Individualism is a hallmark descriptor of American culture. Frederick Jackson Turner’s seminal Frontier Thesis argued that such individualism has its roots in the frontier. While some have questioned this, subsequent studies found empirical support for cultural significance frontier experience. It therefore worth revisiting relevant literature to explore depictions and all nuances. This paper examines Louis L’Amour’s Dark Canyon . work, spanning more than fifty years, embodied quintessential Western novel. paper’s analysis guided by proposed framework coming from inherent traits These include following: selective migration, rugged conditions, opportunity advancement through hard work. The author posits this picture reflected expressed