Mutiny on the Bounty

Published in 1932, Mutiny on the Bounty was written by James Norman Hall ’10 and Charles Nordhoff. The book is the first in a trilogy; the subsequent novels are Men Against the Sea and Pitcairn’s Island. The papers of James Norman Hall were generously donated to Special Collections and Archives by Hall’s daughter and son-in-law, Nancy Hall Rutgers and Nick Rutgers. Among our extensive James Norman Hall Papers are various drafts of Hall’s novels, including the manuscript of the first draft of Mutiny on the Bounty. Examining earlier drafts against the finished text allows readers to view a portion of the editing process and how the author crafted the story. This in turn leads to a deeper understanding of the novel and insight into the author’s writing process.

The first draft of Mutiny on the Bounty was written on a typewriter and contains extensive handwritten notes and edits by both James Norman Hall and Charles Nordhoff. One of the first differences that readers notice is that the first chapter was originally titled “The Sea-Law of Oléren.” The title in the completed book is “Lieutenant Bligh.” Although the first two paragraphs of the draft have been crossed out, there is a note in the margin that reads “all in.” The first two paragraphs of the original draft remain the first paragraphs of the finished work.

In numerous places, word choices and sentences were edited to alter meaning or provide clarity. However, in other places, entire sentences and paragraphs have been crossed out. In one of the largest changes, the original fourth and fifth chapters were consolidated into a single chapter. Anyone who is a fan of Mutiny on the Bounty or simply enjoys learning about the writing process will find plenty to explore in this first draft manuscript.

We encourage anyone with an interest in Mutiny on the Bounty or in James Norman Hall to drop by Special Collections and look at the James Norman Hall Papers. Special Collections and Archives is open to the public 1:30-5:00pm Monday through Friday and mornings by appointment.