Essay Questions

What is the main twist of fate in the story?

As the story begins, the readers are introduced to Robert Burton who is leading a secluded life in the desert looking for gold. While in the desert, Burton is haunted by the evil spirits of the woman he mistreated and shamed in the past. Unexpectedly, Burton comes across an elderly man called Warren who is searching for her daughter, Nellie who was dishonored and abandoned by her husband in the west while she was pregnant. The two men converse and agree to stay together. Burton confesses that he is the man the old man is looking for and he is responsible for her daughter’s misfortunes. Burton reveals to the old man that he did everything possible to do things right and the old man forgives him. Consequently, it is both a twist of fate and irony that Warren meets the man he has been looking for in the same desert!

What is the significance of the title Desert Gold?

Gold is the most valuable mineral and, in this case, it is found in the desert. As the novel suggests, the treasure of life is discovered in the desert by both Burton and Warren when they are taking shelter from the storm. The title of this novel is important because it reflects how Burton values Nellie despite the aggression and disgrace that took place earlier in their relationship. Unfortunately, both Burton and Warren die during the storm but a good amount of gold is dedicated to Nellie by Burton as an honor to their union. He also leaves a marriage certificate behind as a sign of love.

Why is Nell reluctant to accept Gale’s proposal for marriage?

Nell is fearful that by marrying Gale, her illegitimacy will be exposed and that will ruin the image of Gale’s family. She fears that Radford Chase is going to expose her illegitimacy. However, Gale assures Nell that her secret is not going to be let out by anyone. He takes the bull by its horns and beats up Radford to warn him of dire consequences if he dares to let out Nell’s secret because that is malevolent.