Cribbage, with its long history and cultural significance, has made appearances in various literary works, from classic literature to contemporary novels. These references often add a touch of authenticity, showcase character traits, or serve as metaphors for the themes explored in the books. Here are several books that include references to cribbage:
Classic Literature
- "Moby-Dick" by Herman Melville: In this iconic American novel, cribbage plays a small but memorable role. Captain Ahab nails a gold doubloon to the mast of the Pequod as a reward for the first man to sight the white whale, Moby Dick. Later, the carpenter turns Ahab's ivory leg into a cribbage board, symbolizing Ahab's obsession and the intertwining of life and death in the hunt for Moby Dick.
Mystery and Crime Novels
- The Aubrey-Maturin series by Patrick O'Brian: This series of naval historical novels, set during the Napoleonic Wars, frequently mentions cribbage. The game is a pastime for the characters, reflecting historical accuracy and the camaraderie among sailors.
Contemporary Fiction
- "The Cider House Rules" by John Irving: In this novel, cribbage is among the games played by the characters, serving as a backdrop to the development of relationships and the unfolding of the story.
Fantasy
- "The Wise Man's Fear" by Patrick Rothfuss: While not directly referencing cribbage, the book features a card game that shares similarities with traditional card games, hinting at the universal appeal of card games in storytelling and their ability to reflect strategy, fate, and character interaction.
Literature Featuring Games
- "The Card: A Story of Adventure in the Five Towns" by Arnold Bennett: This novel, along with others that focus on games and gambling, often includes references to various card games, including cribbage, to explore themes of luck, strategy, and human nature.
Non-Fiction and Memoirs
- Naval and military memoirs: Cribbage's popularity among sailors and soldiers often leads to its mention in memoirs and historical accounts related to naval life and military experiences, serving as a testament to the game's enduring presence in these communities.
Inclusion in Literature
The inclusion of cribbage in literature serves multiple functions: as a historical detail, a tool for character development, or a metaphor for life's complexities and challenges. Through its strategic depth and the social interactions it fosters, cribbage enriches the narratives of these books, offering readers insights into the characters' minds, the times in which they live, and the universal themes of competition, fate, and connection.