Prologue Summary

This nonfiction book begins with a dramatic retelling of events prior to the flooding of 1927. Prominent Greenville, Mississippi, citizens gather at the house of Seguine Allen, chief engineer of the Mississippi Levee Board, for a social party. One guest of particular note is LeRoy Percy, former Senator and local business magnate. The event is overshadowed by the rain and wind of an enormous storm and by the continually rising waters of the great Mississippi river - waters threatening to top the levee system protecting the town. After some discussion, the party ends. Most attendees travel to town and walk along the levee system, examining the structure and the situation. Though clearly concerned, the people are unaware of the huge catastrophe that will develop in the immediate future.

Prologue Analysis

The Prologue begins with a two-page map of the Mississippi River drainage basin. It...