Author
Leonard Merrick
1864-1939
Leonard Merrick (1864-1939) is a public-domain author available on Rivro. Read free books, explore subjects, and discover related classics.
WikipediaSubjects
Books by Leonard Merrick
To Tell You the Truth
"To Tell You the Truth" by Leonard Merrick is a novel written in the early 20th century. The story centers on Marie Lamande, a talented pianist who leaves her small-town life in France with ambitions of making it big in Paris. Her journey unfolds through resilience and the struggle for recognition, alongside the emotional turmoil stemming from her circumstances and decisions. At the start of the novel, we are introduced to Marie Lamande, who, at the age of twenty-seven, escapes from the oppressive atmosphere of her hometown to pursue her dream of becoming a celebrated artist in Paris. Struggling to establish herself, she takes on meager teaching jobs while longing for opportunities to perform. As she faces the harsh realities of life in the city, her association with an impoverished widow leads to a life-altering decision involving a child left behind after a tragic accident. The opening portion sets the stage for Marie's internal conflict and the ethical dilemmas that will arise as she grapples with her ambitions and the responsibilities she reluctantly takes on.
The Quaint Companions With an Introduction by H. G. Wells
"The Quaint Companions" by Leonard Merrick is a novel written in the early 20th century. The story revolves around the complex dynamics of race, love, and societal expectations as revealed through the lives of its main characters, particularly Elisha Lee, a successful African American tenor, and his romantic interest, Ownie Tremlett, a white woman navigating her feelings in a prejudiced society. The opening of the novel presents a glimpse into Elisha Lee’s life after a concert, where he reflects on his past, particularly his youthful infatuation with Ownie, whom he has not seen for many years. Lee's interactions with fellow artists and his internal musings reveal layers of his character, showcasing his ambition, vulnerability, and the racial prejudices he faces in his professional life. As he reminisces about his first love amid his present circumstances, the narrative starts to weave in themes of longing, identity, and the impact of societal prejudice on personal relationships. The stage is set for a deep exploration of these intertwined lives, hinting at the challenges they will face in their quest for connection in a divided world.
A Chair on the Boulevard
"A Chair on the Boulevard" by Leonard Merrick is a collection of short stories written during the early 20th century. The book seems to explore themes of love, ambition, and the struggles of creative individuals in the vibrant and sometimes harsh milieu of Parisian life. The opening story, "The Tragedy of a Comic Song," introduces the protagonist, Gustave Tricotrin, a poet grappling with the bittersweet realities of his artistic aspirations. The opening of the work unfolds in a restaurant where Tricotrin encounters a melancholic young Frenchman deeply affected by a nostalgic tune played by an organ-grinder. This interaction leads Tricotrin to share the tale of a young woman, Paulette Fleury, who intertwined her fate with two aspiring artists, Tricotrin himself and his friend Pitou. As they embark on a journey to create a comic song for her, the narrative explores themes of artistic devotion, the complexities of love, and the harsh realities of striving for success in the unforgiving world of performance art. The compelling character dynamics and emotional depth hinted at in this story suggest that the collection may resonate well with readers interested in the human condition and the artistic spirit amidst the backdrop of 1920s Paris.
One Man's View
"One Man's View" by Leonard Merrick is a novel likely written in the late 19th century. The narrative revolves around George Heriot, a lawyer, and his unexpected admiration for a young actress, Mamie Cheriton, as they navigate the complexities of ambition, love, and disappointment in their respective lives. The introductory portion sets the stage for Heriot’s introspection about his own life choices, the loneliness he feels during vacations, and his out-of-the-blue reunion with an old friend, Dick Cheriton, who is now a hotelier and father to Mamie. The opening of the book introduces the reader to Heriot's mundane holiday experience at a dull boarding establishment in Eastbourne, where he grapples with thoughts of his past and unfulfilled ambitions. His encounter with Dick leads to revelations about Mamie, who aspires to be an actress, a dream that her father supports despite his own regrets about abandoning his artistic ambitions. As Heriot observes Mamie's passion and determination, feelings of affection and concern for her future aspirations begin to take root. This introductory glimpse sets the tone for an exploration of ambition against societal expectations, and the struggles faced by aspiring artists, particularly women, in the context of love and personal fulfillment amidst the backdrop of the artistic world.
The Man Who Was Good
"The Man Who Was Good" by Leonard Merrick is a novel written in the early 20th century. The narrative explores the struggles and aspirations of theatrical life, particularly focusing on characters connected to the stage, such as chorus girls and actors. Much of the novel revolves around the complex relationships between these characters, particularly emphasizing themes of fidelity, ambition, and the harsh realities of life in the performing arts. At the start of the novel, readers are introduced to the world of theatrical performers through a dressing-room scene where several women converse after a show. Among them, Mrs. Carew reveals her connection to Mr. Seaton Carew, an actor who has been preoccupied with a mysterious meeting with Miss Westland, a fellow performer. Mrs. Carew's contemplative nature hints at underlying tensions in their relationship as she grapples with uncertainty about her husband's actions. The opening sets the groundwork for the exploration of love, betrayal, and the relentless pursuit of opportunity against the backdrop of the theater, showcasing the vibrant yet volatile lives of those seeking success in an unforgiving industry.
Cynthia With an Introduction by Maurice Hewlett
"Cynthia" by Leonard Merrick is a novel written in the early 20th century. The narrative centers around the main character, Humphrey Kent, an aspiring novelist who is navigating the complex emotions associated with love and ambition. Set against the backdrop of literary aspirations, Kent grapples with the challenges of establishing himself in both his professional and personal life, particularly concerning his relationship with the enchanting Cynthia Walford, who becomes a crucial figure in his journey. At the start of the novel, two friends, Kent and Turquand, are introduced in a café in Dieppe, where the topic of conversation turns to Kent's recent literary success and his deepening feelings for Miss Walford. As Kent reflects on his newfound fame and the reality of his financial situation, he contemplates his relationship with Cynthia and the societal expectations surrounding marriage. The narrative unfolds in a light and humorous tone, contrasting Kent's romantic aspirations with the practical concerns of his career and financial stability. Their interactions reveal the complexities of social class and personal ambition, setting the stage for the evolution of Kent and Cynthia's relationship amidst the pressures of their environment.
Conrad in Quest of His Youth: An Extravagance of Temperament
"Conrad in Quest of His Youth: An Extravagance of Temperament" by Leonard Merrick is a novel written in the early 20th century. The story primarily revolves around Conrad, a middle-aged man grappling with his past as he revisits places from his youth in search of lost emotions and connections. The narrative reflects themes of nostalgia, the passage of time, and the contrast between youthful dreams and adult realities. At the start of the novel, Conrad returns to Literary London and reflects on the feeling of alienation he experiences after years away. His disappointment in finding that the vibrant life he once knew is gone is compounded by his longing to recapture the emotions of his youth, particularly during a time spent studying art in Paris. As he embarks on a journey back to the places that shaped his formative years, including a seaside town where he has fond childhood memories, he is haunted by the realization that both he and his surroundings have irrevocably changed. The opening chapters set the stage for a thoughtful exploration of memory, desire, and the inevitable loss that accompanies growing older.