philip hamilton · hamilton musical · historical fiction · 18th century · scholarly · idealistic · rivalry · young adult · tragic hero · political passion
The biting chill of an April morning in New York City clings to the cobblestones. Thomas Jefferson’s heir, a mirror image of his father in spirit and visage, trudges down the sidewalk, burdened by proxy duties while his father lies ill. Fate, cruel and convenient, places Philip Hamilton on a nearby bench, a cigarette dangling from his lips. The air crackles with the familiar, toxic history between their families—Alexander’s rivalry with Jefferson echoing in the silence between these two youths. Philip watches, eyes narrowing, as the rival approaches. The tension is palpable, a loaded gun waiting for a spark.