Author
Michael Arlen
1895-1956
Michael Arlen (1895-1956) is a public-domain author available on Rivro. Read free books, explore subjects, and discover related classics.
WikipediaSubjects
Books by Michael Arlen
The green hat
"The Green Hat" by Michael Arlen is a novel published in 1924 about London's bright young things in the post-World War One era. The story follows Iris Storm, a femme fatale who drives a Hispano-Suiza automobile and navigates romantic entanglements through bohemian London society. Set in Mayfair's Shepherd Market, the novel explores the lives of a generation seeking pleasure and meaning after the war. Its frank treatment of contemporary life made it both a bestseller and a controversial work that challenged social conventions.
"Piracy" : $b A romantic chronicle of these days
"Piracy: A Romantic Chronicle of These Days" by Michael Arlen is a novel written in the early 20th century. The story centers around Ivor Pelham Marlay, a complex character grappling with feelings of loneliness and introspection as he navigates life in post-war London. The narrative appears to explore themes of love, identity, and societal expectations, reflecting the cultural shifts of the era. At the start of the novel, we are introduced to Ivor Marlay, who sits alone at Mont Agel restaurant on the night of May 1, 1921. Engaged in deep contemplation, he reflects on his life, including the weight of his recent expulsion from school and the loss of his arm during the war. As he interacts with M. Stutz, the owner of the restaurant, Ivor's internal struggles about self-worth and belonging come to light. His loneliness is palpable, and despite being financially free, he grapples with the existential dread that accompanies such freedom, suggesting an ongoing quest for connection and purpose amidst the superficial glamor and chaos of London society.
May Fair : $b being an entertainment purporting to reveal to gentlefolk the real state of affairs existing in the very heart of London during the fifteenth and sixteenth years of the reign of His Majesty King George the Fifth: together with suitable reflections on the last follies, misadventures and galanteries of these charming people
"May Fair" by Michael Arlen is a fictional work written in the early 20th century. The story seems to explore the lives and social dynamics of London society during the reign of King George V. It delves into the lives of various characters, including a young writer and members of the aristocracy, while weaving together themes of romance, chivalry, and the complexities of social class. At the start of "May Fair," readers are introduced to a young writer who embarks on a walk through London, reflecting on his relationship with his father, a bankrupt baronet. The writer's routine walk takes a turn when he notices a delicate hand holding a flower from a window, sparking his imagination and a sense of romantic longing. This moment sets the tone for the entanglements of love and social commentary that unfold, including the potential for a grand ball and a duel that intertwines the destinies of the characters and explores the nuances of their relationships. The whimsical narrative invites readers into a world of charm and intrigue.
These charming people : $b being a tapestry of the fortunes, follies, adventures, gallantries and general activities of Shelmerdene (that lovely lady), Lord Tarlyon, Mr. Michael Wagstaffe, Mr. Ralph Wyndham Trevor and some others of their friends of the lighter sort
"These Charming People" by Michael Arlen is a novel written in the early 20th century. The book presents a vivid tapestry of the lives, loves, and ambitions of a diverse set of characters, primarily revolving around the intriguing figure of Shelmerdene, known for her charm and complicated romantic entanglements. The narrative delves deeply into social dynamics and human emotions, particularly how these characters navigate their relationships and societal expectations. At the start of the novel, we are introduced to Shelmerdene as she returns to England from Persia, greeted with a lavish house party at Malmanor Park. Among the gathering are various personalities, including the struggling writer Raymond Paris, who quickly becomes enchanted by Shelmerdene’s allure. Shelmerdene shares a poignant story about her unfulfilling past love, illuminating her internal struggles and desires. This opening portion establishes not only the central characters and their interrelations but also the themes of love, longing, and the quest for connection amidst societal constraints, setting a rich stage for the adventures and follies that are to unfold.
The London Venture
"The London Venture" by Michael Arlen is a novel written in the early 20th century. The narrative explores themes of love, identity, and the complexities of urban life through the introspective thoughts of its protagonist, who reflects on his experiences in London and the relationships that shape him. Central to the story is the character Shelmerdene, a captivating woman whose allure and detachment dramatically influence the narrator's perspective on life and love. At the start of the novel, the narrator reminisces about his departure from London, initially feeling relief at leaving behind its “monotonous routine.” However, as he travels, he begins to feel regret for leaving the city and contemplates returning. He recalls his early days in London, where he grappled with loneliness and the challenge of establishing his identity as an Armenian amidst a bustling society. His thoughts continuously drift to Shelmerdene, whose enigmatic nature epitomizes the complicated relationships he navigates, encapsulating themes of beauty, desire, and the ephemeral nature of connections. This opening sets the tone for a reflective journey through emotional landscapes that highlight the struggle for connection in an often indifferent world.
The Romantic Lady
"The Romantic Lady" by Michael Arlen is a novel written in the early 20th century. The story revolves around Noël Anson, a man whose chance encounter with a mysterious and captivating lady leads him into a delicate exploration of desires, relationships, and the complexities of romantic encounters. The narrative begins with a vivid depiction of Noël's reunion with his old friend, leading to the revealing tale about an enchanting woman he met at the theater. At the start of the novel, Noël Anson recounts a pivotal night at the theater where he becomes entranced by a beautiful woman in a white dress. In his attempt to connect with her, he sends a note inviting her for supper, setting off a series of events filled with flirtation and intrigue. Their conversation reveals the woman's charm and poise as they delve into deeper emotional territory, exploring themes of unfulfilled desires and the impact of societal expectations on personal relationships. The opening illustrates not only the magnetic allure of the titular romantic lady but also the fleeting nature of such enchanting encounters, leaving an impression of longing and inevitable separation.