Author
George Moore
1852-1933
George Moore (1852-1933) is a public-domain author available on Rivro. Read free books, explore subjects, and discover related classics.
WikipediaSubjects
Books by George Moore
Memoirs of My Dead Life
"Memoirs of My Dead Life" by George Moore is a semi-autobiographical novel written in the early 20th century. The narrative blends personal reflection and social commentary, exploring themes of love, moral standards, and artistic expression as the protagonist navigates the complexities of life through locations such as London and Paris. The opening of the novel presents a vivid depiction of London in spring, as the narrator contemplates life from his window, drawn to the beauty and transience of the season. He takes a leisurely ride through the city, reveling in its sights and sounds while reminiscing about the past. The exuberance of spring triggers reflections on nature, love, and youth, creating a sense of nostalgia. The narrator's thoughts transition seamlessly from the present joys to the bittersweet memories of earlier times and experiences, setting the tone for a journey filled with philosophical exploration and emotional depth.
Esther Waters
"Esther Waters" by George Moore is a novel published in 1894. A pious young kitchen maid from a poor family is seduced by a fellow servant and becomes pregnant. Abandoned and alone, she courageously chooses to raise her child despite the harsh judgment of Victorian society. Written in a naturalistic style, this story follows Esther's struggles through poverty, dismissals, and difficult choices as she fights to survive and protect her son in a world that condemns "fallen women."
Journal of a Voyage across the Atlantic With Notes on Canada & the United States, and Return to Great Britain in 1844
"Journal of a Voyage across the Atlantic" by George Moore is a travel narrative written in the mid-19th century. The book chronicles the author's journey from England to North America, providing a personal account filled with observations about the landscapes, cultures, and people he encounters along the way. The opening of the narrative details Moore's departure from Liverpool aboard the steamship "Great Western." He describes initial experiences at sea, including rough weather and daily activities on board, such as mealtimes and public worship, which illustrate the routines of passengers during the voyage. Moore establishes a series of reflections on his desire to document his experiences for friends back home and his growing awareness of the differences between the English and American societies he observes, setting a tone of curiosity and exploration that likely permeates the entirety of the account.
Spring Days
"Spring Days" by George Moore is a novel written during the late 19th century. This work appears to delve into themes of family dynamics, social class, and personal relationships, centering on the Brookes family, particularly Mr. Brookes and his daughters, as they navigate their respective challenges and desires in life. The opening of the novel introduces us to various tensions within the Brookes household. We see Mr. Brookes, a father distressed by the behavior of his daughters, particularly their flirtations with unsuitable young men, such as the Measons. The characters are vividly portrayed, from the argumentative but spirited Maggie to the melancholic Grace, who yearns for a life beyond her father's rigid expectations. As conversations about love, family expectations, and societal roles unfold, readers are presented with a tableau of familial discord and the struggle for individual desires amidst parental authority—setting the stage for a complex exploration of personal and social dynamics.
Modern Painting
"Modern Painting" by George Moore is a critical examination of the evolving art scene, primarily focusing on the development of painting in the late 19th century. Moore explores the works and influences of significant artists, with a keen interest in figures like James Whistler and his contemporaries. This work reflects the author's sharp insights on aesthetics and the transitions in artistic philosophy during this period. At the start of the book, Moore introduces his subject by reflecting on his long engagement with the enigmatic James Whistler, highlighting the complexities of Whistler's character and artistic philosophy. Through an in-depth analysis, Moore seeks to demystify Whistler’s approach, contrasting it with traditional artistic practices. He also juxtaposes Whistler's elegant nocturnes and portraits with those of other prominent artists, revealing a broader commentary on the state of modern art in his time. The opening sets a contemplative tone, indicating that the work will delve into both individual artistry and the larger cultural implications of art in society.
Evelyn Innes
"Evelyn Innes" by George Moore is a novel published in the late 19th century. The story follows Evelyn, the daughter of Mr. Innes, a passionate propagandist of early music, and a struggling musician himself. The novel captures the complex dynamics of their relationship as they navigate the world of music, ambitions, and personal aspirations, against the backdrop of Evelyn's burgeoning talent and the remnants of her mother’s musical legacy. At the start of the narrative, we are introduced to Mr. Innes, who is busy repairing a virginal while reminiscing about his late wife and their shared musical dreams. Their daughter, Evelyn, is portrayed as an exceptional musical talent, raised in an environment filled with early music and instruments. The opening chapters lay a foundation of the family's struggles with their artistic ambitions, Evelyn's longing to find her own identity, and hints at her future interactions with Sir Owen Asher—a patron of the arts, who becomes intrigued by both Evelyn's talent and charm. The beginning sets up a rich exploration of themes such as ambition, familial obligations, and the tension between a conventional life and the pursuit of artistic fulfillment.
A Mummer's Wife
"A Mummer's Wife" by George Moore is a novel likely written in the late 19th century. The story centers around Kate, the wife of a sickly man named Ralph Ede, who is navigating the challenges of her domestic life and her marriage, marked by her husband's constant ill-health and irritability, as well as the tension with her mother-in-law. At the start of the novel, we find Kate caring for Ralph during one of his asthma attacks, showcasing the strain and emotional turmoil within their relationship. The scene unfolds in a modest setting, where Kate is depicted as both devoted and weary, caught in the crossfire between her husband and her mother-in-law. The narrative delves into her thoughts and feelings as she contemplates her responsibilities, the dynamics of her household, and the intrusion of a lodger, Mr. Lennox, who is an actor—a source of contention with her mother-in-law. This opening sets the stage for exploring themes of love, sacrifice, and the complexities of life within a working-class family, all through the lens of Kate's experiences and aspirations.
Confessions of a Young Man
"Confessions of a Young Man" by George Moore is a memoir published in 1888. It chronicles Moore's fifteen years in Paris and London as a struggling young artist immersed in bohemian life during the 1870s and 1880s. Through the protagonist Dayne, Moore depicts a world of painters, poets, actresses, and courtesans, capturing the intoxicating blend of artistic ambition and sensual pleasure. The book offers pioneering literary criticism and some of the first English writings on French Impressionists like Manet and Degas, while challenging Victorian morality with youthful energy and frankness.
The Untilled Field
"The Untilled Field" by George Moore is a novel written in the late 19th century. The story primarily follows a sculptor named Rodney, who grapples with personal and artistic crises as he navigates the complexities of life in Ireland, grappling with religious and cultural constraints that stifle his creativity. Central to the opening chapter are themes of artistic ambition, personal loss, and the pursuit of beauty, all set against a backdrop of a society steeped in traditional values that challenge Rodney's artistic vision. The opening of the novel introduces us to Rodney, who is in his studio on a beautiful summer morning, excited about finishing his new sculpture, a group he calls "Virgin and Child." However, upon arriving, he discovers his studio has been vandalized, leading to the destruction of his work—a devastating loss that prompts reflection on Ireland's stifling environment for artists and the futility of his efforts. Within this emotional turmoil, he interacts with Lucy, a model who has inspired his work. Their dialogue reveals the societal pressures around them and the implications of artistic expression intertwined with personal relationships, setting the stage for further exploration of these themes throughout the novel. As the narrative progresses, it becomes clear that Rodney's artistic journey is inextricably linked to the societal factors surrounding him, as well as his relationship with Lucy.
Celibates
"Celibates" by George Moore is a novel first published in the late 19th century. The book explores the lives of three central characters—Mildred Lawson, John Norton, and Agnes Lahens—all of whom navigate the complexities of desire, societal expectations, and personal aspirations within a modern civilization. The story delves into their celibacy, driven by either nature or circumstance, revealing the emotional turmoil and existential reflections that accompany their unfulfilled lives. The beginning of "Celibates" sets the stage by introducing Mildred Lawson, a woman grappling with her independence and the societal pressures of marriage. As she lies awake in the heat of the night, she reflects on her engagement to Alfred Stanby, feeling suffocated by the conventional path that marriage represents. Her ambitions lean towards art, and she yearns for a life beyond domesticity. Through her memories and desires, readers are given a profound insight into her character's dissatisfaction with societal norms, as she contemplates what it means to pursue a vocation in a world that largely confines women to traditional roles. This opening portion invites readers to explore the struggle between individual aspirations and societal expectations, making it clear that the journey ahead will be rich with psychological depth and social critique.
The Brook Kerith: A Syrian story
"The Brook Kerith: A Syrian Story" by George Moore is a novel written during the early 20th century. The story revolves around a young boy named Joseph, who lives with his family while grappling with the aspirations and dreams imparted to him by his grandmother and his own vivid imagination. The narrative intricately weaves themes of family dynamics, inherited legacies, and personal aspirations in a deeply reflective and historically rich context. At the start of the novel, we are introduced to Joseph, who is characterized by his imaginative spirit and desire to become a prophet like his ancestor Samuel. The beginning unfolds with a storytelling session between Joseph and his grandmother, where he learns about the prophet's anointment of a king. This sparks his own aspiration to become a prophet, leading to introspection about his lineage and the nature of prophecy. The introductory chapters also highlight his relationships with his family—particularly the contrasting expectations from his father and grandmother. The exploration of Joseph's dreams, desires, and the implications of his ancestry sets the stage for his journey of self-discovery, revealing the complexities of navigating personal identity within familial and cultural narratives.
The Lake
"The Lake" by George Moore is a novel likely written in the early 20th century. The story is centered on Father Oliver Gogarty, a priest reflecting on his life, vocation, and connection to the landscape surrounding a lake in Ireland. Through his walk along the shore, he grapples with memories of family, lost love, and his responsibilities as a servant of the Church, entwined with the picturesque yet melancholic scenery of his home. At the start of the novel, we find Father Oliver navigating a beautiful yet introspective day at the lake, seeking solace and escape from his parish duties. His thoughts drift to memories of his childhood, particularly concerning his sister, Eliza, and the choices that have shaped his path. As he wanders, he considers his growing discontent with monotony and hints at a desire for adventure. He recalls the presence of Nora Glynn, a former schoolmistress, and the impact of her absence on his life, which reveals deeper themes of loss, regret, and the burdens of expectation he carries as a priest. Father Oliver's reflections set the stage for a rich exploration of emotion and the search for meaning in both personal and spiritual domains.
Vain Fortune: A Novel
"Vain Fortune" by George Moore is a novel written during the late 19th century. Set against the backdrop of London's theatre scene, it follows the life of Hubert Price, an aspiring playwright struggling with personal and financial difficulties as he strives to complete his latest work, "The Gipsy." The narrative captures the tension between artistic ambition and the harsh realities of life, exploring themes of disinheritance, love, and societal expectations. The opening of the novel introduces Hubert Price in his cluttered lodgings, immersed in a mix of personal turmoil and creative aspiration. We learn about his financial woes and that he is haunted by his failure to secure success with his previous plays. As he battles against his creditors and wrestles with his playwriting, the complexities of his relationships, particularly with fellow artist Rose Massey, unfold. Hubert's circumstances are exacerbated by the recent disinheritance by his wealthy uncle, which sets the stage for future conflict. At the same time, the narrative hints at the potential for redemption through the development of relationships and creative endeavors. Huberts's introspection and keen awareness of his plight invite readers to deeply engage with his journey.
Mike Fletcher: A Novel
"Mike Fletcher: A Novel" by George Moore is a novel written in the late 19th century. The book appears to explore themes of love, ambition, and moral conflict through the experiences of its main characters, especially Mike Fletcher and John Norton, as they navigate the complexities of life and relationships in a vibrant yet morally ambiguous London. The opening of the novel introduces a lively scene in a restaurant where Mike Fletcher socializes with acquaintances and engages in raucous banter, reflecting the bohemian lifestyle of the time. We meet John Norton, who grapples with his ideals in contrast to the societal distractions around him, particularly the allure of women and the insidious influence of Mike, who is both charming and debauched. As the narrative unfolds, deeper philosophical discussions arise regarding love, virtue, and temptation, particularly as John becomes increasingly concerned about the fate of a nun, Lily Young, whom Mike has lured from her convent. The tension builds as personal desires clash with ethical considerations, drawing the reader into the moral dilemmas that define these characters’ lives.
A Mere Accident
"A Mere Accident" by George Moore is a novel written in the late 19th century that explores themes of social class, family dynamics, and the contrasts between rural and urban life in England. The story is likely to revolve around the lives of its main characters, particularly John Norton, the son of Mrs. Norton, who grapples with his feelings about home, societal expectations, and emotional turmoil, as depicted in the initial chapters. The opening of the novel paints a vivid picture of Thornby Place and its surroundings, setting a detailed scene of England’s idyllic countryside. It introduces Mrs. Norton, a determined and assertive matriarch, who is keenly aware of her son John's emotional distance and absence from home. She expresses concern for John's unconventional choices, especially his reluctance to engage in the expectations of adult life, such as marriage and managing their estate. The dialogue between Mrs. Norton and her friend Mr. Hare reveals her desires for John's future while also highlighting his internal struggles with identity, artistic aspirations, and views on life, which create tension in their relationship. The narrative intricately portrays the contrasting values and desires of the characters, hinting at deeper conflicts to emerge as the story unfolds.
Sister Teresa
"Sister Teresa" by George Moore is a novel written in the early 20th century. The narrative centers around Evelyn Innes, a once-famous singer who has left the stage and is now deeply involved with a convent, wrestling with her spiritual commitments and the demands of her previous life. The opening chapters introduce several key characters, including Mother Philippa and the Prioress, as they confront financial difficulties while drawing Evelyn back into the world of music and societal pressures. The beginning of "Sister Teresa" sets the tone for the existential and moral dilemmas Evelyn faces. As she learns of the convent's dire financial circumstances, Evelyn offers her support, revealing her deep emotional connection to the nuns and their plight. Her reflections on her past as an actress showcase a stark contrast between her former life filled with fame and the simplicity she seeks within the convent. The dialogues between Evelyn and the nuns convey their desperation and resilience while hinting at the tension between her responsibilities to the convent and the allure of her former life, setting the stage for her inner conflict as she contemplates returning to the stage, all while being pulled further into the spiritual realm she now navigates.
Muslin
"Muslin" by George Moore is a novel originally published under the title "A Drama in Muslin" during the late 19th century. The book explores themes of social conventions, marriage, and female agency, particularly through the character of Alice Barton, the eldest daughter of a family navigating the complexities of society and relationships. The narrative touches upon Alice's emergence from a convent education into the world of adulthood, emphasizing her interactions with peers, family, and potential suitors. The opening of "Muslin" paints a vibrant picture of the convent where the schoolgirls are preparing for a prize day, filled with excitement and innocence. The character of Alice is introduced as a thoughtful and somewhat plain girl, who writes a play entitled "King Cophetua" that is to be performed at the event. The interactions between Alice, her sisters, and her schoolmates reveal a mix of ambition, rivalry, and social expectations as they all eagerly look forward to their upcoming experiences in the wider social world. Through the festival atmosphere and the budding relationships, the opening establishes the themes of transition and the challenges facing young women as they confront societal norms.