“As the crew began lighting up their cigars and pipes, they could hear the ragtime music of Scott Joplin being performed by the colored composer himself enlivening the atmosphere with a jubilant feeling of gaiety, hope, and promise.” Historical FictionAmericanaGilded AgeRagtimeCultural HistoryEvocative WritingScott JoplinHope And Promise Book:A Blazing Gilded Age Source: A Blazing Gilded Age