Marianne Farningham
Nineteen hundred? A forecast and a story
"Nineteen Hundred? A Forecast and a Story" by Marianne Farningham is a narrative work written in the late 19th century. The book intertwines elements of speculative fiction and social commentary, considering the prospects of the future and the influence of religion and society on the youth of England. The story follows characters like Arthur Knight and John Dallington, who are returning to England after several years abroad, and explores their personal growth and interactions with influential figures such as Miss Wentworth. The opening of the book sets the stage as the characters return home aboard the ship "Kenwick Castle", their thoughts filled with nostalgia and anticipation for their new beginnings. Arthur Knight reflects on his past, conversations about faith, and the purpose he feels destined to fulfill in England. Meanwhile, John Dallington revisits his family's manor house, contemplating his responsibilities as the new squire and the changes he has encountered. The narrative captures the dynamic relationships between the characters, emphasizing themes of social duty, personal belief, and the broader implications of the changing societal landscape in England. As the characters engage in discussions about morality and the state of the nation, the groundwork is laid for future challenges and implications of their actions.