Author
J. B. (John Boynton) Priestley
1894-1984
J. B. (John Boynton) Priestley (1894-1984) is a public-domain author available on Rivro. Read free books, explore subjects, and discover related classics.
WikipediaSubjects
Books by J. B. (John Boynton) Priestley
Benighted
"Benighted" by J. B. Priestley is a novel published in 1927. When travelers seek refuge in an old Welsh country house during a storm, they encounter a family harboring dark secrets. Set in post-First World War Britain, the novel explores the era's pervasive disillusionment through characters Priestley described as "forms of postwar pessimism pretending to be people." Drawing on gothic literary traditions and inspired by "Jane Eyre," this atmospheric tale places ordinary people in extraordinary circumstances where hidden truths await discovery.
Papers from Lilliput
"Papers from Lilliput" by J. B. Priestley is a collection of essays written in the early 20th century. The book presents a series of reflections that explore various themes such as literature, society, and eccentricity, often framed through personal anecdotes and observational humor. Priestley takes on a variety of subjects, perhaps focusing on imaginative comparisons and the quirks of human behavior. The opening portion introduces a character named Bridge Frodsham, a little-known 18th-century provincial actor. Priestley admires Frodsham's bravado during his meetings with the renowned London actor David Garrick, highlighting the tension between local talent and national fame. This essay reveals Frodsham's audacity in proclaiming his own abilities, which leads to a lively exchange with Garrick, showcasing themes of self-importance and the difference between local and broader theatrical recognition. The narrative is rich in character exploration and social commentary, setting the stage for more such insights throughout the collection.
Brief Diversions: Being Tales, Travesties and Epigrams
"Brief Diversions: Being Tales, Travesties and Epigrams" by J. B. Priestley is a collection of literary vignettes that was written in the early 20th century. The book features a variety of short narratives, travesties, and witty epigrams showcasing Priestley's characteristic humor and insight into human nature and society. The collection loosely touches upon themes of love, war, existential musings, and the absurdities of modern life, providing readers with a stimulating and reflective experience. The content of the book is diverse, bringing together a mixture of original tales alongside playful parodies of well-known literary figures. Each piece invites the reader into a unique scenario, such as a god facing modern ridicule, a politician grappling with the absurdities of truth, or a fiddler who leads Death in a dance. Through cleverly crafted narratives, Priestley explores poignant truths about existence, the folly of societal norms, and the intricate dance between death and life, ultimately weaving a tapestry that celebrates the complexities of human thoughts and experiences while often eliciting a chuckle.