Author
Joseph Conrad
1857-1924
Joseph Conrad (1857-1924) is a public-domain author available on Rivro. Read free books, explore subjects, and discover related classics.
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Books by Joseph Conrad
Heart of Darkness
"Heart of Darkness" by Joseph Conrad is a novella published in 1899. Sailor Charles Marlow recounts his journey as a steamer captain for a Belgian company deep into the African interior. His assignment: to find Kurtz, an ivory trader who has mysteriously "gone native" at a remote station upriver. Conrad's tale explores European colonialism, power, and morality while questioning the boundary between civilization and savagery. The novella provides a dark meditation on imperialism, drawing unsettling parallels between London and Africa as places shrouded in darkness.
The Secret Agent: A Simple Tale
"The Secret Agent: A Simple Tale" by Joseph Conrad is a novel first published in installments in 1905–1906 and in book form in 1907. Set in 1886 London, it follows Adolf Verloc, a secret agent and shop owner who lives with his wife Winnie and her intellectually disabled brother Stevie. When Verloc is pressured to bomb Greenwich Observatory to provoke public outrage against anarchists, the operation goes catastrophically wrong. The story explores themes of espionage, terrorism, exploitation, and the devastating consequences of deception within a family.
Lord Jim
"Lord Jim" by Joseph Conrad is a novel originally published as a serial from 1899 to 1900. When young British seaman Jim abandons a distressed passenger ship with its crew, he faces public censure and loses his sailing certificate. Haunted by shame, Jim flees from port to port until finding refuge in a remote island village, where he becomes a respected leader called "Lord Jim." But when a dangerous marauder arrives, Jim's past and present collide with devastating consequences.
Nostromo: A Tale of the Seaboard
"Nostromo: A Tale of the Seaboard" by Joseph Conrad is a novel published in 1904. Set in the fictional South American republic of Costaguana, the story follows the charismatic Italian longshoreman Nostromo as he attempts to smuggle a fortune in silver away from revolutionary forces. Entrusted by mine owner Charles Gould to protect the treasure, Nostromo finds himself trapped between loyalty and temptation. What begins as a daring mission becomes a tale of corruption, obsession, and the devastating cost of secret wealth.
The Secret Sharer
"The Secret Sharer" by Joseph Conrad is a short story written in 1909. A young captain, commanding his first ship, discovers a fugitive clinging to his vessel at night—a first mate who has killed a crew member and escaped arrest. Recognizing the stranger as his mirror image in appearance and background, the captain hides him aboard, risking his command and credibility. As authorities search and his crew grows suspicious, he must execute a dangerous maneuver to help his double escape while proving himself as captain.
Under Western Eyes
"Under Western Eyes" by Joseph Conrad is a novel published in 1911. Set in St. Petersburg and Geneva, it follows Razumov, a solitary Russian student whose carefully planned future unravels when a fellow student involves him in a political assassination. Forced to make an impossible choice between betrayal and survival, Razumov becomes entangled with revolutionaries and the victim's idealistic sister. Conrad's cynical exploration of revolutionary idealism, autocratic power, and moral isolation stands as his response to Dostoevsky and his own conflicted past.
Typhoon
"Typhoon" by Joseph Conrad is a novella written in 1899 and serialized in 1902. Captain MacWhirr commands the steamer Nan-Shan straight into a devastating Pacific typhoon, refusing to change course despite the mounting danger. Though emotionally distant from his crew and family, and lacking imagination, his unyielding determination against overwhelming natural forces commands unexpected respect. Conrad innovatively portrays the shift from sail to steam while employing a startling narrative technique—leaping forward in time at the story's climax, challenging readers to imagine how the ship survived the storm's fury.
A Set of Six
"A Set of Six" by Joseph Conrad is a collection of short fiction published in 1908. Unlike Conrad's earlier psychological explorations, these six stories prioritize action and entertainment over analysis. Set in diverse locations and featuring incidents ranging from duels to anarchists, the collection marks a departure from Conrad's autobiographical work. Written explicitly to "raise money quickly," these tales emphasize dramatic incident, love, and humor—elements Conrad believed essential for popular fiction—while largely abandoning the moral conflicts that defined his previous short stories.
Tales of Unrest
"Tales of Unrest" by Joseph Conrad is a collection of five short stories published in 1898. Four of the stories explore the devastating power of illusions, examining protagonists who suffer from moral blindness. These tales confront characters with harsh realities from which no escape—physical or metaphorical—is possible. Written during what critics consider Conrad's most extraordinary period of creative energy, the collection established his reputation as a writer of considerable achievement, even as popular success remained elusive.
Victory: An Island Tale
"Victory: An Island Tale" by Joseph Conrad is a psychological novel published in 1915. It follows Axel Heyst, a rootless wanderer shaped by his father's pessimism, who rescues a young woman named Lena from mistreatment and takes her to his isolated island refuge. When a vengeful hotel owner spreads lies about hidden wealth, a dangerous trio arrives with deadly intentions. The novel shifts between multiple narrative perspectives, creating a complex psychological landscape that explores compassion, isolation, and human connection in a remote Indonesian setting.
Youth, a Narrative
"Youth, a Narrative" by Joseph Conrad is a short story first published in 1898. Narrated by the recurring character Marlow, it recounts a young sailor's first voyage to the Far East aboard the ill-fated barque Judea. What should be a straightforward coal delivery to Bangkok becomes an epic test of endurance as the aging ship suffers collision, storms, months of repairs, and finally spontaneous combustion at sea. Based on Conrad's own experiences, this autobiographical tale captures youthful optimism confronting maritime disaster with unusual serenity.
The Mirror of the Sea
"The Mirror of the Sea" by Joseph Conrad is a memoir-like work written in the early 20th century. It reflects upon the life and experiences of seafarers, particularly focusing on the relationship between sailors and the sea, navigation challenges, and the broader reflections on time, memory, and the nature of existence. Through his observations, Conrad sheds light on the emotional landscape of those who traverse the oceans. The beginning of the work introduces the concepts of "Landfall" and "Departure," framing them as essential aspects of a sailor's journey. Conrad emphasizes the technicalities and sentiments associated with these nautical terms, contrasting the emotional weight of leaving the familiar shores against the thrill of the journey ahead. Through his perceptions, he provides insight into the lives of ship captains and crew members, highlighting their quirks, routines, and the inevitable longing for land against the vastness of the sea. The reflections create a poignant atmosphere as Conrad sets the stage for deeper explorations of maritime life and philosophy.
The nigger of the "Narcissus" : $b A tale of the forecastle
"The Nigger of the 'Narcissus': A Tale of the Forecastle" by Joseph Conrad is a novella published in 1897. Aboard the merchant ship Narcissus sailing from Bombay to London, a dying West Indian sailor named James Wait stirs both sympathy and suspicion among the crew. When a violent storm capsizes the ship and calm winds trap them at sea, tensions mount as some believe Wait himself is cursed. Conrad explores solidarity and self-interest within this floating microcosm of society, examining how humanitarian feelings can both unite and divide men facing the sea's indifferent power.
The Rescue: A Romance of the Shallows
"The Rescue: A Romance of the Shallows" by Joseph Conrad is a novel published in 1920. Captain Tom Lingard commands a sailing ship in the Malayan archipelago, committed to helping his native friend Hassim reclaim his land. When he encounters a stranded yacht, Lingard meets the enigmatic Edith Travers, wife of a hostile British gentleman. As romantic tension builds between Lingard and Mrs. Travers, his loyalty to Hassim clashes with unexpected complications, forcing him to navigate treacherous waters between duty, friendship, and desire.
The Shadow Line: A Confession
"The Shadow Line: A Confession" by Joseph Conrad is a novella written in 1915. A young, unnamed man assumes his first command as ship captain in the Orient, crossing the threshold from youth to maturity. Told through a dual-narrative structure that contrasts the older narrator's wisdom with his younger self's inexperience, the story follows the new captain as he faces mysterious challenges aboard his vessel. Conrad explores themes of responsibility, camaraderie, and the journey toward wisdom through this introspective tale of self-discovery at sea.
Amy Foster
"Amy Foster" by Joseph Conrad is a short story written in 1901. A shipwrecked emigrant from Central Europe washes ashore in England, where terrified locals reject him as a madman because he speaks no English. Eventually given shelter, Yanko Goorall learns some English and marries Amy Foster, a servant who showed him kindness. But cultural differences haunt their relationship, and Amy remains disturbed by his foreign language and customs. When fever strikes Yanko, a tragic misunderstanding unfolds that reveals the devastating cost of isolation and failed communication.
An Outcast of the Islands
"An Outcast of the Islands" by Joseph Conrad is a novel written in the early 20th century. The story explores the complex lives of its characters against the backdrop of colonial settings in the East Indies, focusing particularly on themes of identity, betrayal, and moral ambiguity. The protagonist, Willems, is a conflicted character whose ambition and actions lead him to a precarious position on the fringes of society, suggesting a deeper commentary on colonial exploitation and personal downfall. At the start of the novel, we are introduced to Willems, a man who struggles with his identity and morality. He initially views a misguided venture into dishonesty as a minor detour, believing he can easily return to his virtuous life. As he interacts with his wife Joanna and the Da Souza family, it becomes clear that his sense of superiority derived from his European status is shallow and ultimately fragile. In a critical scene, Willems experiences a dramatic confrontation with Joanna, revealing the tensions in their relationship that stem from his arrogance and neglect. The opening sets a tone of impending tragedy, establishing Willems as a man increasingly alienated from those around him and foreshadowing the chaotic moral landscape he must navigate.
Almayer's Folly: A Story of an Eastern River
"Almayer's Folly: A Story of an Eastern River" by Joseph Conrad is a novel published in 1895. Set in the Borneo jungle, it follows Dutch trader Kaspar Almayer, who dreams of finding hidden gold and building wealth. Married to a native Malayan woman with a mixed-heritage daughter Nina, Almayer's obsessive pursuit of riches leads to tragedy when a Malayan prince arrives and falls in love with Nina. The story explores colonialism, family loyalty, and the devastating consequences of impossible dreams.
Chance: A Tale in Two Parts
"Chance: A Tale in Two Parts" by Joseph Conrad is a novel published in 1913. Narrated through multiple voices, including Conrad's recurring character Charles Marlow, the story follows Flora de Barral, daughter of a convicted swindler. Her sheltered existence collapses with her father's imprisonment, forcing her to depend on others' uncertain generosity until she escapes through marriage to Captain Anthony. The novel explores their enigmatic union through fragmented perspectives, building toward a climactic resolution when her father rejoins them at sea.
Notes on Life & Letters
"Notes on Life & Letters" by Joseph Conrad is a collection of essays and reflections composed during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. The work encapsulates Conrad's insights into literature, critiques of various authors, and contemplations on life, reflecting on the intersection of literary creation and human experience. The essays range from appreciative observations about his literary predecessors, such as Henry James and Alphonse Daudet, to personal reflections on broader social and political themes. The opening portion of the collection begins with Conrad's author's note, where he humbly presents the essays as a personal tidying of his thoughts on literature and life. He describes the arrangement of these works as a mix of literary and political reflections over a span of two decades, conveying his view that art and intellectual expressions are intimately tied to the essence of human existence. Throughout this initial segment, Conrad emphasizes a sincere and contemplative approach to literary criticism, presenting both gratitude and introspection regarding the transient nature of literary endeavors and the artist's struggle for permanence amidst the inevitable decline of all things. The tone is both reflective and engaging, inviting readers to ponder the significance of literature in understanding human life.
The Arrow of Gold: A Story Between Two Notes
"The Arrow of Gold: A Story Between Two Notes" by Joseph Conrad is a novel published in 1919. Set in 1870s Marseille during the Third Carlist War, it follows an unnamed narrator caught in a love triangle with the enigmatic Doña Rita and Confederate veteran Captain Blunt. The three become entangled in dangerous arms-smuggling operations supporting Spanish royalist forces. Based on real historical figures and events, Conrad weaves romance and political intrigue into a tale of passion, loyalty, and adventure along the Mediterranean coast.
A Personal Record
"A Personal Record" by Joseph Conrad is a reflective memoir, likely written during the late 19th century. The work serves as a deeply personal account from the author, who contemplates his life experiences, literary aspirations, and the significance of the written word, navigating through memories of his first encounters with the sea and his literary creations like "Almayer's Folly." Conrad's narrative style is introspective, offering insights into the development of his identity as both a writer and a man shaped by his maritime background. At the start of the memoir, Conrad shares his thoughts on the nature of writing and the effects of words, revealing a struggle between sincerity and expressiveness. He humorously recounts the friendly pressure he faced to write this account, emphasizing his reluctance and the mundane moments that influenced his literary pursuits. Through rich imagery, he reflects on a specific time and place aboard a ship in Rouen, transitioning from focused writing on "Almayer's Folly" to the mundanities of life at sea, hinting at the deep connections between his experiences and the narratives he constructs. The opening establishes a tone of candid exploration, inviting readers to witness the complexities of his thoughts as he balances the emotional resonance of his memories with a desire for artistic clarity.
The End of the Tether
“The End of the Tether” by Joseph Conrad is a novella written in the late 19th century. The story revolves around Captain Whalley, a seasoned and aging seafarer who reflects on his long career at sea while grappling with themes of loss, fading relevance, and the struggle to maintain dignity in the face of overwhelming change. Captain Whalley’s character is painted with depth, showcasing his profound connection to the sea and his sense of duty towards his late wife and daughter. The opening of the novella establishes Captain Whalley aboard the steamer "Sofala", detailing his mundane life on the coast he has navigated for three years. The sharp contrast between his past glories as a daring sea captain and his current position illustrates his melancholy and the inevitability of aging. He is portrayed as a man who has lost much—his wife, his fortune, and the status he once held in the maritime world. Additionally, his concern for his daughter Ivy’s future heightens his inner conflict, as he contemplates the drastic changes in his life and the world around him. The narrative sets a reflective tone, signaling a journey not just through waters, but also through memory and identity, as Captain Whalley faces the possibility of relinquishing his last command.
Some Reminiscences
"Some Reminiscences" by Joseph Conrad is a collection of personal reflections and experiences written during the late 19th century. This work serves as an introspective exploration of the author's life, articulating the influences that shaped his literary career and offering insights into his relationships, especially with the sea and the characters that populated it. It traverses various themes of memory, identity, and the creative process, establishing a subjective narrative style that is both candid and contemplative. The opening of the book presents an introduction where Conrad reflects on the motivations behind writing this collection. He acknowledges the pressure he feels from a friend to share his thoughts and memories, emphasizing the significance of words and the sincerity that he aims to convey in his writing. He discusses the challenges of articulating emotions through language, the influences of his seafaring life, and the complexity of translating personal experiences into literature. Conrad introduces us to his literary world, hinting at the various characters and experiences that will be elaborated upon in subsequent chapters, while also establishing his intent to reveal the man behind his fictional works.