Subject
Death -- Fiction Books
Best books
Edward Bulwer Lytton Lytton
"My Novel" — Complete
"My Novel" by Edward Bulwer-Lytton is a novel likely written during the early to mid-19th century. The story opens with a discourse among characters in Uncle Roland's tower, where the protagonist, Pisistratus, is urged to write a novel amidst discussions of history, population pressures, and social commentary on English rural life. At the start of the novel, we are introduced to a vivid scene set in the tower where various characters, including Mr. Caxton and his family, engage in a lively dialogue about history and literature, hinting at Pisistratus's impending role as a writer. The conversation weaves between personal grievances, such as financial woes and the antiquated notion of the Corn Laws, and broader reflections on society. Through witty banter and musings on literary inspiration, the groundwork is laid for Pisistratus to embark on his journey as a novelist, fueled by familial encouragement and the chaotic yet endearing dynamics of life around him. As the opening unfolds, it establishes a setting rich with character-driven humor and philosophical inquiries that promise a blend of satire and social critique in the story to come.
Henry James
The Altar of the Dead
"The Altar of the Dead" by Henry James is a short story published in 1895. The tale follows George Stransom, who creates a private ritual of lighting candles in a church to honor his deceased friends and preserve their memory from oblivion. When he befriends a woman who shares his devotion to the dead, he discovers she mourns the one person he refuses to forgive. Their spiritual connection fractures over this single name, forcing Stransom to confront whether love and forgiveness can transcend even the deepest wounds of the past.
Bernardin de Saint-Pierre
Paul and Virginia
"Paul and Virginia" by Bernardin de Saint-Pierre is a novel published in 1788. Set on the island of Mauritius under French rule, it tells the story of two friends raised together from birth who fall in love. Living in isolation amidst tropical landscapes, they lead an idyllic life of virtue and simplicity until family circumstances force a separation. Written on the eve of the French Revolution, the novel explores the corruption of natural innocence by French upper-class artificiality and critiques eighteenth-century social divisions.
Émile Zola
Truth [Vérité]
"Truth [Vérité]" by Émile Zola is a novel written in the late 19th century. The book delves into the intricacies of truth and falsehood within society, particularly highlighting the tension between secularism and religious influence, as well as exploring themes of social justice amid a backdrop of a mysterious crime. The story revolves around Marc Froment, a schoolmaster whose life becomes entwined with a tragic murder that challenges his beliefs and convictions. The opening portion of the novel introduces readers to the setting of Maillebois, a small French town, where Marc Froment arrives with his family for a vacation. Shortly after their arrival, the community is shaken by the discovery of Zéphirin, a young boy and nephew of a fellow schoolmaster, found murdered. The narrative describes the grim atmosphere surrounding this event, the reactions of the townsfolk, and the immediate implications it has for those involved. As Marc grapples with the horror of the crime, Zola intricately weaves in themes of societal upheaval, the quest for truth, and the prejudice faced by certain characters, particularly focusing on the tensions between the Jewish community and the prevailing religious sentiments of the time.
Wilkie Collins
Jezebel's Daughter
"Jezebel's Daughter" by Wilkie Collins is a novel written during the late 19th century, specifically in the 1880s. The story revolves around the aftermath of two deaths, which intertwine the lives of their widows: Mrs. Wagner, who seeks to carry out her late husband’s progressive business ideas, and Madame Fontaine, who is embroiled in a family scandal involving accusations against her character. The interactions between these strong female characters set the stage for themes of societal norms, maternal love, and the personal struggles of their respective families. At the start of the novel, the narrator, David Glenney, recounts significant events surrounding the deaths of Mr. Wagner and Doctor Fontaine that occurred on the same day. As David reflects on his association with Mr. Wagner's widow, we learn of her determination to implement her husband’s progressive vision for advancing the roles of women in business. Concurrently, the narrative introduces Doctor Fontaine's widow and daughter, highlighting the complexities of their social standing and the prejudices they face. The emotional weight and character depth are further emphasized as Mrs. Wagner begins to understand and empathize with Madame Fontaine's situation, setting the groundwork for a gripping tale of intermingling lives and moral dilemmas in the face of societal expectations.
Henry Dudeney
Men of Marlowe's
"Men of Marlowe's" by Mrs. Henry Dudeney is a collection of interrelated stories, published in the early 20th century. Set in a charming Inn of Court in Sussex, the book features a variety of characters who lead lives filled with humor, melancholy, and rich human connection. It explores the lives of residents at Marlowe's Inn, showcasing their intricacies and relationships, likely through the lens of a perceptive outsider or narrator. The opening of this work introduces a conversational exchange between two characters discussing the nature of stories and human experiences. As they banter, they touch upon various personalities within Marlowe's Inn, including a mystic comedian and a poet, revealing the quirky atmosphere of their environment. One of the stories involves a tragic incident where a man named Dick Simpson is found dead by suicide, sparking curiosity and somber reflection among the residents. Another character, Orion, is depicted as a peculiar individual with a fascination for elaborate social gatherings, juxtaposed with a heavier theme of sadness and existential dread. The narrative, marked by humor and poignant moments, sets the stage for an exploration of the complexities of human emotion and relationships within the unique setting of Marlowe's Inn.
Robert Silverberg
Recalled to life
"Recalled to Life" by Robert Silverberg is a science fiction novel written in the late 20th century. The narrative centers around James Harker, a former Governor turned private lawyer, as he uncovers a monumental scientific breakthrough: the ability to reanimate the dead. As Harker navigates the moral and ethical implications of this discovery, it becomes clear that he is confronted with a range of societal and personal dilemmas tied to life, death, and the prospect of resurrection. The opening portion establishes Harker's mundane routine and inner struggles following his transition from a position of political power to personal insignificance. He receives a visit from Dr. Benedict Lurie, who reveals the success of his research team in resurrecting the recently deceased. The profound implications of such a process weigh on Harker as he reflects on his own grief over losing his daughter and the moral complexities involved with the reanimation of human beings. The chapter unveils Harker's reluctant journey into a world of ethical considerations surrounding life and death while setting the stage for the inevitable societal repercussions resulting from the lab's scientific endeavor.
Edward Bulwer Lytton Lytton
"My Novel" — Volume 06
"My Novel" — Volume 06 by Baron Edward Bulwer Lytton is a fictional narrative likely written in the mid-19th century. The opening chapters introduce us to the protagonist, Leonard Fairfield, and his mother, Mrs. Fairfield, as they navigate their tumultuous lives marked by ambition and familial connections. The philosophical musings of Mr. Caxton serve to set the thematic tone, exploring concepts of existence, individuality, and societal connections as Leonard grapples with his identity and aspirations. The beginning of the volume presents Leonard and Mrs. Fairfield escaping a distressing situation involving Mr. Avenel, a character whose actions have significant implications in their lives. As the narrative unfolds, Leonard takes on the role of caretaker for his mother, demonstrating his commitment to their bond. Their journey leads them to London, a city filled with both promise and uncertainty. The narrative quickly highlights the emotional struggles of the characters, particularly focusing on their desire for a better life amidst external challenges, setting the stage for Leonard's quest for purpose and meaning in a world that appears daunting yet full of opportunities.
Edward Bulwer Lytton Lytton
"My Novel" — Volume 12
"My Novel" — Volume 12 by Baron Edward Bulwer Lytton is a fiction novel likely written in the mid-19th century. The story revolves around the Caxton family as they reappear in a narrative filled with intrigue and dramatic tension surrounding themes of love, honor, and deception. The characters navigate complex relationships, particularly focusing on Violante, who becomes the target of Count Peschiera’s relentless pursuit, setting the stage for a tale of both romantic entanglement and personal agency. At the start of the book, we see the Caxton family engaging in lively discussion about the characters and fates from the narrative being written by Pisistratus Caxton, presumably trying to influence its outcome. The atmosphere is rife with humor and concerns for the younger female characters, especially Violante, who struggles against external forces, including the Count and the scheming Randal Leslie. As the opening unfolds, Violante’s possible abduction is hinted at, alongside various conspiracies crafted by the adults around her. The complexities of relationships and the varying motivations of characters introduce a rich tapestry of social intrigue that promises both conflict and resolution as the story progresses.
Edward Bulwer Lytton Lytton
"My Novel" — Volume 07
"My Novel" — Volume 07 by Baron Edward Bulwer Lytton is a serialized novel likely written in the mid-19th century. The book explores complex themes of courage and the human condition through a familial conversation about the nature of bravery, interspersed with the trials faced by the protagonist, Leonard Fairfield, as he navigates challenges in London society following personal and economic upheaval. The beginning of the volume introduces a household debate led by Mr. Caxton about the essence of courage, as he recounts an encounter with a bull. This dialogue reveals character dynamics and sets the philosophical tone for the narrative. Meanwhile, Leonard is grappling with feelings of humiliation and isolation in London, struggling to maintain a façade of confidence in a series of letters he writes to friends. This dual narrative arc serves to illustrate his internal battles against despair and societal expectations, laying the groundwork for further exploration of resilience and human connections as the story unfolds.
Edward Bulwer Lytton Lytton
"My Novel" — Volume 03
"My Novel" — Volume 03 by Baron Edward Bulwer Lytton is a novel written during the mid-19th century. The story follows the protagonist, Pisistratus Caxton, as he grapples with the challenges of authorship, seeking to find a fitting title for his work while navigating the dynamics of family and social expectations. The narrative delves into a sense of identity and societal roles, reflecting on themes of duty, ambition, and the interplay between personal and public perceptions. The opening of the novel begins with a conversation among Pisistratus, his father, and their family members about the author's nascent work, tentatively titled "My Novel." As the discussion unfolds, Pisistratus is pressured to settle on a title, invoking a humorous debate about the significance of naming a story. This sets the stage for Pisistratus's creative journey. The plot quickly shifts focus to an incident involving Leonard Fairfield, a character unjustly punished by being placed in stocks for defending the honor of the squire's estate after an altercation with young Randal Leslie, the squire's kinsman. Thus, the novel not only introduces the complexities of literary creation but also intertwines with themes of morality, reputation, and social injustice in a vibrant rural setting.
Edward Bulwer Lytton Lytton
"My Novel" — Volume 08
"My Novel" — Volume 08 by Baron Edward Bulwer Lytton is a fictional narrative likely written in the mid-19th century, which delves into the complexities of intellect, societal conventions, and personal relationships. The book closely examines the themes of enlightenment and its contradictions, portrayed through an array of characters each embodying different viewpoints on knowledge and morality. Central figures introduced include Randal Leslie, a cunning intellectual navigating through societal and ethical dilemmas, and Beatrice, Marchesa di Negra, whose interactions and entanglements hint at deeper personal stakes in the socio-political context of their time. At the start of the novel, an intense discourse unfolds regarding the "March of Enlightenment," where various characters express conflicting opinions on its significance and implications. Notably, the initial chapters reveal a conversation between Beatrice and her brother, Count Giulio, as they plot to secure a marriage alliance that could restore their family fortunes while simultaneously wrestling with their past and moral dilemmas. The narrative hints at Randal’s schemes, his keen interest in Beatrice, and the unfolding of a love narrative intertwined with power dynamics, as secrets involving another family—Riccabocca's—begin to surface. Randal's strategic positioning amidst these complications adds layers of intrigue, setting the stage for the exploration of human ambition, enlightenment, and relational entanglements that promise to engage readers.
Recently surfaced classics