Author
Aldous Huxley
1894-1963
Aldous Huxley (1894-1963) is a public-domain author available on Rivro. Read free books, explore subjects, and discover related classics.
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Books by Aldous Huxley
Crome Yellow
"Crome Yellow" by Aldous Huxley is a novel published in 1921. At a country house party, young poet Denis Stone navigates a gathering of eccentric intellectuals, each absorbed in their own philosophies and pursuits. While secretly longing for his host's niece Anne, Denis encounters cynical philosophers, spiritual seekers, ambitious artists, and restless romantics. Through witty dialogue and sharp observation, Huxley satirizes post-World War I society's fads and failures, creating a comedy of manners that questions whether humanity can find meaning in a world without direction.
Those barren leaves
"Those Barren Leaves" by Aldous Huxley is a novel written in the early 20th century. The story is set in a small Italian town and revolves around the social dynamics and character interactions at a summer palace, particularly focusing on the protagonist Mary Thriplow and her encounters with various figures, including the charming Calamy. The book explores themes of passion, artistry, and societal pretense. The opening of the novel introduces the picturesque town of Vezza and sets the tone for a gathering at the palace of the Cybo Malaspina. A weary postman reflects on his arduous daily task of delivering letters and telegrams to the eccentric Englishwoman, Mrs. Aldwinkle, who has invited guests to her summer residence. Among them, Miss Thriplow is introduced as a young novelist preparing for the arrival of Mr. Calamy, a handsome man from a privileged background. Their first encounter is marked by a mixture of charm, nervousness, and underlying social aspirations as they navigate their respective roles in a world filled with artifice and longing. The opening sets up a rich exploration of character and societal norms through the lens of casual yet artificial interactions among the guests.
Limbo
"Limbo" by Aldous Huxley is a novel written in the early 20th century. The narrative introduces readers to Dick Greenow, an intellectually gifted boy navigating his formative years, grappling with personal identity and societal expectations, particularly regarding his feelings of discontent and his burgeoning romantic desires. The book delves into themes of self-discovery, the struggle between personal aspirations and social roles, and the complexity of human relationships. At the start of the story, we are introduced to young Dick Greenow and his sister, Millicent, whom he feels a mix of admiration and slight disdain toward due to their contrasting personalities. Dick is portrayed as an introspective boy, quietly navigating his feelings towards his peers at school and grappling with his intellectual pursuits. His academic achievements, particularly in mathematics, are overshadowed by a growing realization of his emotional complexity stemming from his unreciprocated love for the strikingly confident Francis Quarles. This early portion establishes a foundation of Dick's character and foreshadows the intricate dynamics of identity, sexuality, and societal pressures he will face as he transitions into adulthood.
On the Margin: Notes and Essays
"On the Margin: Notes and Essays" by Aldous Huxley is a collection of essays written in the early 20th century. The essays engage with a variety of cultural, literary, and philosophical topics, analyzing the nature of art, poetry, and the societal values of the time. Huxley’s distinct voice and critical perspective shine through as he reflects on established norms and challenges conventional wisdom. The opening of the text introduces Huxley’s reflections on his summer spent along the Italian coast, where he meditates on the nature of celebrating poets like Percy Bysshe Shelley, particularly in light of centenary commemorations. Huxley critiques the trend of honoring deceased authors with overly sentimental celebrations that, in his view, diminish their radical spirit and relevance. He compares the Italian celebration of Dante’s death with English traditions, suggesting that the former retains a sense of vibrancy and life, while the latter risks reducing great poets to mere figures of reverence, effectively fossilizing their legacies. This introductory essay sets the tone for the subsequent pieces, blending personal narrative with cultural critique.
Antic Hay
"Antic Hay" by Aldous Huxley is a novel published in 1923. Set in post-World War I London, it offers a biting satire of the aimless cultural elite adrift in turbulent times. The story follows Theodore Gumbril, a teacher who invents pneumatic cushion trousers while searching for love and meaning. To overcome his shyness with women, he adopts a bold disguise called "The Complete Man." Condemned for its cynicism and frank discussion of sex, the novel was banned in Australia and burned in Cairo.
The Defeat of Youth, and Other Poems
"The Defeat of Youth, and Other Poems" by Aldous Huxley is a collection of poetry crafted in the early 20th century. This compilation showcases Huxley's lyrical prowess as he explores themes of love, beauty, and the passage of time, often reflecting on the complexities of youthful passion and the inevitable decay of life. The poems convey both a sense of longing and a profound meditation on existence, characteristic of Huxley's literary style. The collection opens with the titular poem, "The Defeat of Youth," depicting the bittersweet experience of young love intertwined with the awareness of mortality. Throughout the verses, Huxley portrays a range of emotions, from the jubilant exuberance of first love to haunting reflections on loss and decay. The imagery evokes lush landscapes and intricate feelings, often drawing parallels between the beauty of nature and the transient nature of human experiences. This anthology invites the reader to witness the depth of Huxley's thoughts, making it a compelling exploration of both personal and universal themes.
Leda
"Leda" by Aldous Huxley is a narrative poem written in the early 20th century. The work delves into themes of love, desire, and transformation through the lens of the Greek myth of Leda and the Swan, exploring the intertwining of human and divine experiences. It captures the complexities of beauty and the emotional turbulence that accompanies intimate relationships. The poem recounts the story of Leda, a beautiful Spartan queen, who is approached by Zeus, disguised as a swan. As Leda experiences the enticement of the swan, her inner turmoil reflects her feelings of vulnerability and the conflicting emotions associated with love. The poem intricately weaves together vivid imagery and rich symbolism, showcasing Leda’s beauty, her longing for freedom, and the destructive nature of passion. Themes of transformation are pronounced, as Leda ultimately becomes a vessel for divine intervention, leading to significant consequences in her life. Through Huxley's evocative language, the poem rests on the precarious balance of desire and the weight of consequence, inviting readers to reflect on the nature of love and the human condition.
Index of the Project Gutenberg Works of Aldous Huxley
"Index of the Project Gutenberg Works of Aldous Huxley" by Aldous Huxley is a compilation of various works by the renowned author, compiled during the early 21st century. This publication falls under the category of a bibliographic index, serving as a reference for readers interested in Huxley's significant contributions to literature, including novels, poetry, and essays. The topic likely revolves around providing a comprehensive list of his works which astutely reflect on themes of society, philosophy, and human experience. The content of this book serves as an extensive guide to the works of Aldous Huxley, listing titles like "Crome Yellow," "The Defeat of Youth and Other Poems," "Mortal Coils," "The Burning Wheel," "Leda and Others," and "Limbo." Each work is arranged with a table of contents that links to detailed accounts, providing readers with easy access to Huxley's diverse literary outputs. The index encapsulates a range of genres and themes, showcasing Huxley’s exploration of human relationships, existential questions, and societal critiques, making it a valuable resource for both new and returning fans of his work.
Little Mexican & Other Stories
"Little Mexican & Other Stories" by Aldous Huxley is a collection of short stories written in the early 20th century. The stories often explore themes of identity, experience, and the complexities of the human condition, with a particular focus on the narrator's interactions and relationships with notable figures in his life, such as his Uncle Spencer. The work is likely to appeal to readers interested in introspective and character-driven narratives. The opening of the collection introduces us to "Uncle Spencer," a character whose vibrant personality and erratic intellect shape the formative experiences of the young narrator. Through detailed reflections on their travels from England to Longres, Huxley paints a vivid picture of the narrator's childhood holidays, marked by the eccentricities and opinions of Uncle Spencer, who is a mix of charm, impatience, and whimsical ideas. This opening portion sets the stage for a series of observations that delve into memory and the impact of familial relationships, combining humor with philosophical undertones that suggest a deeper exploration of how childhood influences adulthood.
The Burning Wheel
"The Burning Wheel" by Aldous Huxley is a collection of poems written in the early 20th century. This work explores themes of human desire, existential inquiry, and the search for truth and beauty amid life's turmoil. The poetry delves into metaphysical musings, reflecting on the contrast between the self and the external world, alongside a contemplative probing of the human condition. The collection features a series of poems that evoke a range of emotions and contemplations, often juxtaposing the beauty of nature with the struggles of human existence. In pieces like "The Burning Wheel," Huxley reflects on the relentless cycle of life and desire, portraying the conflicts between yearning and fulfillment. Other poems, such as "Darkness" and "Mole," depict the introspective journey of the self against a backdrop of societal limitations. The recurring themes of love, loss, and introspection encapsulate a quest for understanding, revealing the interplay between the soul's aspirations and the harsh realities of life. Overall, "The Burning Wheel" serves not only as a poetic exploration of the human spirit but also as a bridge between the individual and the collective experience of existence.
Selected Poems
"Selected Poems by Aldous Huxley" is a collection of poetry written in the early 20th century. This anthology showcases Huxley's diverse exploration of emotions, nature, and the human condition through vivid imagery and thoughtful reflection. The poems encapsulate a range of themes from beauty and desire to loss and nostalgia, reflective of the modernist literary movement during this period. Within this collection, Huxley displays a deep engagement with the subtleties of life and fleeting moments, often illustrated through natural elements and personal memories. Each poem offers a glimpse into the poet's psyche, merging observations of the external world with intimate emotional experiences. The verses evoke sensory experiences, from the burning colors of flowers to the tranquility of moonlit nights, all the while pondering the intricacies of existence and human connection. Through rich language and metaphoric depth, Huxley invites readers to ponder the coexistence of beauty and transience in their own lives.
Mortal Coils
"Mortal Coils" by Aldous Huxley is a collection of five short fictional pieces published in 1921. Taking its title from Hamlet's famous soliloquy, the collection includes three short stories, a novelette, and a play. Each piece explores different forms of human trouble, particularly romantic entanglements that lead to disappointment. The works range from social satire blended with murder mystery to tales of boredom, disillusionment, and amorous complications, showcasing Huxley's sharp observations of human nature and relationships.
Jonah Christmas 1917
"Jonah" by Aldous Huxley is a collection of poems written during the early 20th century. This work delves into themes of spirituality, existence, and the human condition, often reflecting on profound experiences and the natural world. Huxley’s characteristic wit and philosophical insights are evident throughout, offering readers a blend of contemplation and observation. The poems in "Jonah" explore a range of imagery and ideas. They encompass a variety of subjects, from the biblical tale of Jonah and his reflection on divine mercy to musings on love, nature, and the complexities of life. Huxley portrays the human experience through vivid metaphors, blending elements of both surrealism and realism. The collection illustrates the struggle for understanding amidst the chaos of existence, combining lyrical beauty with philosophical depth to evoke a sense of wonder and introspection in the reader.