Author
Gilbert Cannan
1884-1955
Gilbert Cannan (1884-1955) is a public-domain author available on Rivro. Read free books, explore subjects, and discover related classics.
WikipediaSubjects
Books by Gilbert Cannan
Old Mole Being the Surprising Adventures in England of Herbert Jocelyn Beenham, M.A., Sometime Sixth-Form Master at Thrigsby Grammar School in the County of Lancaster
"Old Mole" by Gilbert Cannan is a novel written in the early 20th century. The story centers around Herbert Jocelyn Beenham, referred to as "Old Mole," an unambitious schoolmaster at the Thrigsby Grammar School who leads a monotonous life. His world is shaken when a misunderstanding leads to a scandal that forces him to leave his position, ultimately setting him on a path of self-discovery and unexpected adventures. The opening of "Old Mole" introduces us to H. J. Beenham, a schoolmaster who has dedicated twenty-five years to Thrigsby but is well aware of his own lack of ambition and the limited reach of his life. His routine existence is abruptly derailed when he is accused of assaulting a young woman, Matilda Burn, on a train. Despite his genuine intentions to comfort her, Beenham's actions are misconstrued, leading to public humiliation and the possibility of losing everything he has known. The chapter sets the tone for his transition from the confines of an academic life to the chaos and uncharacteristic adventures of the theater world, where he encounters Matilda again and becomes entwined in her aspirations. This unexpected turn catalyzes a series of events that challenge both his identity and beliefs, pushing him into a new life filled with unpredictability.
Mendel: A Story of Youth
"Mendel: A Story of Youth" by Gilbert Cannan is a novel written in the early 20th century. The narrative follows the life of Mendel Kühler, a young Jewish boy who immigrates with his family from Austrian Poland to London, documenting their struggles with poverty, identity, and ambition. Central to the story are Mendel's aspirations to become an artist, juxtaposed against the harsh realities faced by his family in a foreign land. The opening of the story introduces us to the Kühler family as they arrive in London, grappling with the chaos of the city and their uncertain future. Mendel and his family navigate their new environment, filled with both hope and despair, as they confront the challenges of life in a bustling metropolis far removed from their previous home. Mendel's unique sensitivity to beauty sets the stage for his artistic aspirations, while his mother, Golda, and father, Jacob, embody the complexity of familial expectations amid economic hardship. The foundation of Mendel's character and the dynamics that will shape his journey are thoughtfully established, hinting at the struggles and triumphs yet to come.
Young Earnest: The Romance of a Bad Start in Life
"Young Earnest: The Romance of a Bad Start in Life" by Gilbert Cannan is a novel written in the early 20th century. The narrative centers around John René Fourmy, a young man navigating the complexities of love, family history, and societal expectations. As he reflects on his relationships, particularly with his father and his romantic interest, Cathleen, we gain insights into his struggles with self-identity and the weight of past experiences. The opening of the novel introduces René as he waits for his beloved, only to be consumed by memories of his father's disgraceful past. As he reminisces about his family dynamics and the love he shares with Cathleen, we see how deeply his father's downfall affects his romantic aspirations. This interplay between past trauma and present longing sets the stage for René's journey, showcasing his romantic ideals juxtaposed with the harsh realities of his upbringing. The opening chapter establishes a poignant tone, hinting at the challenges of reconciling love and societal constraints, as well as the protagonist's evolving self-perception amidst the turbulence of his familial legacy.
Round the Corner Being the Life and Death of Francis Christopher Folyat, Bachelor of Divinity, and Father of a Large Family
"Round the Corner" by Gilbert Cannan is a novel written in the early 20th century. The story revolves around Francis Christopher Folyat, a bachelor of divinity, as he navigates his life and the complexities of family and social expectations. Set against the backdrop of a changing society, the narrative explores themes of ambition, religious duties, and the quest for individual identity. At the start of the novel, we are introduced to Francis Folyat, who comes from a gentle but declining family. His mother intends for him to follow a traditional path, which leads to a crisis when she doubts his suitability for a military career, instead suggesting the Church. Francis reluctantly embraces this path, but his thoughts and dreams offer glimpses into his internal struggle. The early chapters illustrate the dynamics within the Folyat family, characterized by unfulfilled ambitions and the weight of generational expectations, setting the tone for Francis's ensuing journey into life, love, and the responsibilities that come with them.
Windmills: A book of fables
"Windmills: A Book of Fables" by Gilbert Cannan is a collection of satirical fiction written in the early 20th century. This work unfolds through a series of fables, examining themes of war, society, and love, likely influenced by the historical context of World War I. The narrative begins with the story of George Samways, a man living on an isolated island who, after a series of encounters with visitors—a bishop and a woman named Arabella—finds himself embroiled in a grander tale of love and war that transcends his solitary existence. The opening of the book introduces George Samways, who experiences unease about the state of his island and ventures to observe a higher peak, discovering a desolate, churning sea surrounding his territory. As he grapples with existential realizations, he meets a Bishop who provides him with biblical teachings alongside Arabella, a woman of enchanting beauty. The interplay between these characters sets the stage for an exploration of complex human relationships against the backdrop of impending societal changes and upheaval. Through George's perspective, the reader is invited to reflect on deep philosophical questions regarding love, identity, and the futility of war, setting a tone that balances levity with poignant commentary.
Mummery: A Tale of Three Idealists
"Mummery: A Tale of Three Idealists" by Gilbert Cannan is a novel written in the early 20th century. Set against the backdrop of early 1900s London, the story follows the lives of Charles Mann, a sensitive artist, and his determined companion, Clara Day, as they navigate their aspirations, relationships, and the challenges of the artistic world. The novel explores themes of ambition, love, and the clashes between personal ideals and societal expectations, as both characters strive for recognition and success amidst the complexities of their new environment. The opening of the book introduces us to Charles Mann and Clara Day as they arrive in London, filled with contrasting perspectives. Charles, a gifted but insecure artist, is immediately critical of the bustling city, while Clara embodies youthful optimism and a resolve to help him succeed. As they settle into their new life, Clara seeks to awaken Charles's artistic potential, but their differences in ambition and character begin to surface. The narrative captures the tension between their idealistic dreams and the harsh realities of the artistic landscape, setting the stage for a story rich in emotional depth and the exploration of their unconventional relationship.