The Desultory Man
 Collection of Ancient and Modern British Novels and Romances. Vol. CXLVII.

by G. P. R. (George Payne Rainsford) James

"The Desultory Man" by G. P. R. James is a novel written in the early 19th century. The book serves as a memoir-like narrative, offering reflections on the life and innermost thoughts of the main character, James Young. Focused on his experiences, emotions, and relationships, particularly with family and childhood companions, the story reveals themes of nostalgia, love, and the passage of time, all set against a backdrop of personal loss and youthful aspirations. The opening of the novel introduces James Young, who begins to document a year filled with painful introspection. He reflects on his early life, which was marked by the death of his father and the subsequent trials faced by his family. The narrative details his childhood memories, including his complex relationship with his stepfather and the deep affection he holds for Emily Somers, his childhood companion. James’s vivid recollections encapsulate the development of his character as he navigates the complexities of love, familial ties, and the influences of education, vividly emphasizing the desultory nature of his life experiences.