Author
Compton MacKenzie
1883-1972
Compton MacKenzie (1883-1972) is a public-domain author available on Rivro. Read free books, explore subjects, and discover related classics.
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Books by Compton MacKenzie
The Passionate Elopement
"The Passionate Elopement" by Compton MacKenzie is a novel written in the early 20th century. The story is set in the picturesque town of Curtain Wells, which serves as an inland spa, and follows a vibrant cast of characters as they navigate issues of love, society, and personal ambitions, with a particular focus on the romantic entanglements of Miss Phyllida Courteen and Mr. Francis Vernon. The novel promises a blend of humor and social commentary, exploring the eccentricities of its protagonists against a backdrop of whimsical and romantic escapades. The opening of "The Passionate Elopement" introduces readers to the quirky ambiance of Curtain Wells, marked by its strict routines and vibrant social life. We meet various characters, including the flamboyant Beau Ripple and the lovestruck Mr. Vernon, as they prepare for Valentine's Day, a day imbued with expectations and desires that complicate their relationships. The scene is set for a comedic exploration of love and social standing, as the characters engage in their morning rituals, with Phyllida dreaming of romance and Mr. Vernon contemplating the implications of his affections. This lively introduction sets the stage for a narrative rich in character interplay and societal observation.
Sinister Street, vol. 1
"Sinister Street, vol. 1" by Compton Mackenzie is a novel published in 1913. This coming-of-age story follows Michael Fane and his sister Stella, two children born out of wedlock to wealthy parents in an era when such circumstances carried deep social stigma. The novel traces Michael's development from a precocious boy through his experiences at prep school and Oxford, capturing the texture of early twentieth-century English life with lavish detail and unflinching confidence.
Carnival
"Carnival" by Compton MacKenzie is a novel written in the early 20th century. The story centers on Jenny Raeburn, born under the quiet veil of a London autumn, and her experiences growing up in a working-class environment. The narrative delves into the tensions and dynamics of her familial relationships, particularly between her mother Florence and her often absent father, Charlie, as well as the influence of her stern aunts. The opening of "Carnival" establishes a vivid picture of Jenny's birth during a tranquil October evening, revealing her mother's conflicting emotions toward motherhood, domestic life, and the expectations placed upon her. Florence navigates her thoughts about her marriage to Charlie, reflecting on her lost dreams and the burdens of motherhood, while the arrival of her daughter Jenny introduces hope yet heightens her anxiety about the future. Through poetic descriptions, Mackenzie captures the atmosphere of their modest home and the weight of family tradition, setting the stage for Jenny's journey of self-discovery and the societal pressures she will face as she grows up.
Sinister Street, vol. 2
"Sinister Street, vol. 2" by Compton Mackenzie is the second volume of a novel published in 1914. This Bildungsroman follows Michael Fane and his sister Stella, two children born out of wedlock to wealthy parents in Edwardian England. The novel traces Michael's development from boyhood through his experiences at Oxford and into sophisticated young adulthood, capturing a vanished generation with lavish detail. This second volume continues the journey begun in the first, exploring themes of identity, social class, and coming of age.
The Altar Steps
"The Altar Steps" by Compton MacKenzie is a novel written during the early 20th century. The story begins in a London mission setting, focusing on the character of a little boy named Mark Lidderdale, whose life is intertwined with the church and the complexities of his family's dynamics, including his father, a missioner, and mother, as they navigate their roles in the ecclesiastical setting of that era. The opening of the book portrays a vivid glimpse into Mark's childhood filled with a blend of innocence and fear, encapsulated in his night-time worries and whimsical thoughts surrounding his experiences with the Bishop's impending visit. As he wrestles with ideas of disaster and divine protection, readers are introduced to his loving, yet perhaps overly cautious mother, alongside a father who is deeply invested in his ecclesiastical duties. The transition into the life of the Lidderdale family hints at deeper themes of parental expectations and the challenges of faith and duty, setting the stage for Mark's growth in a world deeply influenced by religious convictions and personal aspirations.
The Early Life and Adventures of Sylvia Scarlett
"The Early Life and Adventures of Sylvia Scarlett" by Compton MacKenzie is a novel written in the early 20th century. The story follows the life of Sylvia Scarlett, a young girl living in France, as she navigates familial relationships and societal expectations amidst her colorful yet tumultuous upbringing. At the start of the narrative, we are introduced to Sylvia's father, Henry Snow, during a chaotic scene that highlights his carefree and somewhat irresponsible nature. Meanwhile, Sylvia’s mother, Juliette, is depicted as a hardworking seamstress struggling to provide for her family in the face of mounting challenges, including her husband's gambling habits. The opening establishes a vivid backdrop of family dynamics filled with laughter, conflict, and cultural contrasts, while also planting seeds of curiosity about Sylvia's future and the transformation she will undergo as her story unfolds.
Poor Relations
"Poor Relations" by Compton MacKenzie is a novel written in the early 20th century. The story centers on John Touchwood, a successful romantic playwright and unsuccessful realistic novelist, as he embarks on an Atlantic voyage aboard the liner "Murmania", heading back to England. The opening chapters introduce the ship's lively atmosphere and an array of quirky fellow passengers, setting the stage for John's internal reflections on his family, his career, and the often awkward dynamics of social relationships. At the start of the novel, John is swept away by the bustling scenes aboard the ship, where optimism reigns among the other passengers despite the looming realities back home. He contemplates his dual identity as a playwright and novelist while navigating conversations with a barber and his fellow travelers. The narrative foreshadows the exploration of familial ties and societal expectations when he overhears a remark that troubles him regarding the role of 'poor relations.' As the story unfolds, we witness John's longing for connection alongside the burdens of familial obligations, making this novel a rich exploration of relationships against the backdrop of societal norms in early 20th century England.
Guy and Pauline
"Guy and Pauline" by Compton MacKenzie is a novel published during the early 20th century. The story revolves around the life of Guy Hazlewood, a young poet who has recently moved into Plashers Mead, a house in a quaint village, and his interactions with the local community, including three sisters from the Rectory, particularly his growing consideration of Pauline. The narrative captures themes of ambition, romantic interest, and the dynamics of rural life as Guy navigates his new surroundings. The opening of "Guy and Pauline" introduces us to Guy's arrival at his new home, Plashers Mead, as he contemplates his solitude while unpacking books and preparing for the winter. The interactions with the local characters, such as Mr. Godbold, the porter, and glimpses of the rectory sisters, set the stage for his evolving relationships in this pastoral setting. As Guy reflects on his decision to write poetry away from the bustling life of the city, he is drawn into moments of spontaneity and contemplation that hint at the romantic tensions and social intricacies that will develop in the narrative. The passage sets up a contrast between Guy's aspirations and the realities of his life in Wychford, paving the way for the ensuing drama and emotional conflicts involving the Greys, particularly Pauline.
Sylvia & Michael: The later adventures of Sylvia Scarlett
"Sylvia & Michael: The Later Adventures of Sylvia Scarlett" by Compton MacKenzie is a novel likely written in the early 20th century. This story continues the journey of Sylvia Scarlett as she navigates through her tumultuous life after leaving an engagement in pursuit of artistic aspirations. In the opening chapters, the narrative sets the tone for exploring themes of identity, resilience, and societal expectations through Sylvia's experiences in Paris and Petersburg. The opening of the book introduces Sylvia as she arrives in Paris, overwhelmed yet deeply introspective regarding her past choices and future ambitions. She has broken off her engagement and is determined to make her way as an artist, despite the struggles that come with her financial insecurity and the demeaning circumstances of cabaret life. Sylvia grapples with feelings of despair and degradation while yearning for renewal—a journey marked by a chance meeting with a fellow artist, Carrier. As the story unfolds, Sylvia's struggles become a backdrop for her search for self-worth and fulfillment amidst the chaos of wartime Europe, highlighting her transformation from a woman scorned to one ready to reclaim her life.
The Vanity Girl
"The Vanity Girl" by Compton Mackenzie is a novel written in the early 20th century. The story revolves around the life of Norah Caffyn, an ambitious young woman who is navigating the complexities of family life and personal aspirations within the constraints of a traditional household. As she grapples with her burgeoning beauty and desire for independence, her character stands out against the backdrop of suburban domesticity in West Kensington. The beginning of the narrative introduces readers to the dull yet revealing world of Lonsdale Road, where Norah lives with her numerous siblings and her overbearing father, Mr. Caffyn. The household dynamics are humorously depicted as Norah longs for freedom from societal and parental expectations. The interplay of her aspirations, particularly her desire to pursue a career on stage, contrasts sharply with her father's conservative viewpoint, leading to friction within the family. Norah's determination to escape her current life culminates in a decision to forsake an engagement to her suitor, Wilfred Curlew, in favor of chasing her dreams in the theater—a decision that sets the stage for her transformation and pursuit of identity outside her family's shadow.
Plashers Mead: A Novel
"Plashers Mead: A Novel" by Compton Mackenzie is a work of fiction written in the early 20th century. The novel centers on Guy Hazlewood, a young man who has recently moved to the countryside to pursue a literary career while grappling with personal ambitions and societal expectations. Set against the backdrop of the English countryside, it delves into themes of aspiration, romance, and the complexities of social relationships. The opening of the story introduces us to Guy as he arrives at his new home, Plashers Mead, and grapples with feelings of loneliness and anticipation. He reflects on his recent life in a more sociable setting and feels the weight of expectations from his father regarding his choice of career. As Guy settles in, he finds himself recognized by local villagers, including Mr. Godbold, the trap driver, who comments on the remoteness of his new village. Guy's loneliness is compounded by the absence of his friend Michael, who left unexpectedly. However, a chance encounter with three sisters near the local river offers a hint of romance and companionship, laying the groundwork for future interactions and developments that promise to intertwine their lives.
The Seven Ages of Woman
"The Seven Ages of Woman" by Compton MacKenzie is a novel written in the early 20th century. The book seems to explore the different stages of a woman's life through the story of several characters connected to the Flowers family, primarily focusing on familial relationships, social status, and personal challenges faced by women. At the forefront is Lady Flower and her sons, particularly Edward, whose romantic entanglements and subsequent choices drive a significant part of the narrative. At the start of the novel, we are introduced to Sir Richard Flower as he embarks on his annual horseback ride around his estate, reflecting on family legacy and the responsibilities of land ownership. The chapter quickly reveals tensions within the Flower family, particularly surrounding Sir Richard's son Edward's romantic involvement with a tenant's granddaughter, Elizabeth. This relationship brews conflict with the father, who harbors traditional views and is disheartened by Edward's nonconformity. As the narrative unfolds, Edward's determination to marry Elizabeth despite his father's disapproval sets the stage for deeper familial drama, symbolizing the struggle between personal desire and societal expectations. The initial chapter cleverly sets up the dynamics that will be explored in relation to the titular theme of the "ages of woman."
Rich Relatives
"Rich Relatives" by Compton MacKenzie is a novel written in the early 20th century. The story revolves around Jasmine Grant, a young woman who travels from Italy to England, facing the challenges of entering a new world filled with wealthy relatives who are largely unfamiliar to her. The narrative captures her emotional turmoil as she grapples with feelings of loneliness and estrangement from her privileged family members. The opening of the novel introduces Jasmine at the York railway station, where she is met with a blend of rudeness and indifference from the porter, reflecting her own fraught emotions. As she awaits her train to Spaborough, Jasmine is depicted as a beautiful but visibly distressed figure, mourning the recent death of her father and contemplating her place within her new family. Her interactions with the porter and her mental reflections on Italy contrast sharply with the coldness of English life, setting the tone for her complex journey ahead. Jasmine's first encounter with her cousin Harry Vibart brings a flicker of connection and hope, yet her return to the world of her rich relatives is fraught with the uncertainty of her future amidst their expectations.
Rogues and vagabonds
"Rogues and Vagabonds" by Compton MacKenzie is a novel written in the early 20th century. It captures the whimsical and vibrant world of London's pleasure gardens through the lens of theatrical and pyrotechnic spectacles. The narrative revolves around Letizia Oriano, a young woman poised to perform a daring act at "Neptune's Grotto," a tavern that embodies an era on the cusp of change, hinting at societal transformations and personal conflicts interwoven with the drama of her mother's ambitions. The opening of "Rogues and Vagabonds" introduces readers to "Neptune's Grotto" and the excitement of a fireworks show produced by Madame Oriano, Letizia’s mother. Set in 1829, the chapter captures a lively scene filled with patrons drawn to the spectacle of light and sound. As Madame prepares for the grand finale that features Letizia, we witness the underlying tension through the characters' interactions, particularly Letizia's defiance and Caleb Fuller's brooding jealousy. This dynamic unfolds against a backdrop of encroaching modernization, signaling changes that threaten traditional pleasures and relationships, setting the tone for the intertwining lives of these colorful characters.
Kensington Rhymes
"Kensington Rhymes" by Compton MacKenzie is a charming collection of children's poetry published in the early 20th century. The book captures the whimsical experiences and imaginative adventures of children in a London suburb, providing a nostalgic glimpse into childhood perceptions and playful interpretations of everyday life. The poems are illustrated by J. R. Monsell, enhancing the visual appeal while appealing to young readers and their families. The collection features a variety of themes, such as the delights of home, the innocence of childhood games, and the fantastical interpretations of mundane activities. Each poem reflects on different aspects of life, from attending a dancing class and enjoying summer holidays to contemplating the presence of a burglar or the magic of a rainy day. The verses are rich with vivid imagery and playful language, inviting readers to connect with their own childhood memories while sparking their imagination about the world around them. Overall, "Kensington Rhymes" is both a celebration and a portrayal of the joys and tribulations of growing up.