Subject
Poets -- Fiction Books
Best books
Henry James
The Aspern Papers
"The Aspern Papers" by Henry James is a novella published in 1888. A nameless narrator travels to Venice with a singular obsession: to obtain the private letters of Jeffrey Aspern, a deceased American poet. His target is Juliana Bordereau, the poet's aged former lover, who guards these precious documents. To gain access, the narrator poses as a lodger and considers courting Juliana's plain niece, Miss Tita. James crafts a suspenseful tale about the ethical boundaries of biographical pursuit, where desire for literary treasure collides with human dignity and privacy.
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.
William Dean Howells
The Minister's Charge; Or, The Apprenticeship of Lemuel Barker
“The Minister's Charge; Or, The Apprenticeship of Lemuel Barker” by William Dean Howells is a novel written during the late 19th century. The story follows the relationship between a minister, David Sewell, and a young, aspiring poet named Lemuel Barker living in rural Willoughby Pastures. The narrative delves into themes of ambition, artistic failure, and the responsibilities that come with mentorship. The opening of the novel provides a glimpse into Sewell's life as he reflects on his encounters with Lemuel and the disappointment he feels about the boy's unrealistic aspirations in poetry. After initially offering praise to the young poet, Sewell grapples with guilt over his previous encouragement as he receives a letter from Lemuel seeking assistance in publishing his work. The minister's internal conflict grows throughout the opening chapters, establishing the deep moral quandary he faces when he finally meets Lemuel again in Boston. Sewell's hesitance is met with Lemuel's naïveté, as he remains hopeful despite the odds against him, contrasting the harsh realities of rural life with the aspirations of artistic ambition. This sets the tone for a thoughtful exploration of sincerity, disappointment, and the complexities of kindness versus honesty.
Charles Kingsley
Alton Locke, Tailor and Poet: An Autobiography
"Alton Locke, Tailor and Poet: An Autobiography" by Charles Kingsley is a novel published in 1850. Written in sympathy with the Chartist movement, it follows a young tailor-boy with poetic ambitions beyond his working-class station. The novel exposes social injustices faced by clothing workers and agricultural laborers while chronicling Alton's passionate involvement in working-class reform. Through intense patriotism, vain struggles for love, and righteous indignation, he fights for change—but at what cost to his fragile spirit?
Emilia Pardo Bazán
The Swan of Vilamorta
"The Swan of Vilamorta" by Emilia Pardo Bazán is a novel written in the late 19th century. It explores themes of love, ambition, and social dynamics through the experiences of its main characters, Segundo García, a young poet, and Leocadia Otero, a schoolmistress. The narrative is situated in the fictional town of Vilamorta, where personal aspirations intertwine with a backdrop of societal expectations and complex relationships. At the start of the story, Segundo descends a rugged path near the town, reveling in the peaceful ambiance as he engages in an imaginative conversation with an echo. His poetic sensibilities catch the attention of passing muleteers, who mock him, prompting him to retreat into the nearby pine grove, where he eventually encounters Leocadia, with whom he shares a close and affectionate bond. As the narrative unfolds, Leocadia's profound feelings for Segundo are highlighted, juxtaposed against the social constraints and the weight of her past that she carries. The opening thus sets the stage for the exploration of their emotional entanglements, ambitions, and the contrasting backdrop of the town.
Thomas Moore
Lalla Rookh : $b An Oriental romance
"Lalla Rookh: An Oriental romance" by Thomas Moore is a romantic work first published in 1817. The poem follows Princess Lalla Rookh, daughter of Mughal emperor Aurangzeb, as she journeys to marry the King of Bukhara. Along the way, she falls in love with Feramorz, a poet in her entourage who entertains her with four enchanting tales. The work blends a frame narrative with interpolated poems set in sumptuous Eastern settings, exploring themes of love, disguise, and identity in a world of Persian splendor.
May Sinclair
The Divine Fire
"The Divine Fire" by May Sinclair is a novel written in the early 20th century. The book introduces us to Horace Jewdwine, an Oxford don, and his cousin Lucia Harden, as they navigate their relationships and the world of literature. The narrative revolves around the potential genius of a young poet, Savage Keith Rickman, prompting a discussion on artistic responsibility and the intersection of talent and patronage. At the start of the novel, we see Jewdwine returning to his family estate and discussing his discovery of Rickman's poetry, specifically his neo-classical play "Helen in Leuce." Jewdwine feels the weight of responsibility for his discovery and is torn between wanting to help Rickman and recognizing the risks of staking his reputation on an unproven talent. As Jewdwine and Lucia engage in conversations about Rickman, we glimpse their contrasting views on art, ambition, and the expectations placed upon them. Moreover, Rickman's precarious position as a poet in an unkind world is hinted at throughout the dialogue, setting the stage for further exploration of themes related to artistic struggle and the dynamics of friendships formed through intellectual pursuits.
Anthony Hope
A Change of Air
"A Change of Air" by Anthony Hope is a novel written in the late 19th century. The story introduces Dale Bannister, a wild young poet who scandalizes the small town of Market Denborough by moving into a lavish country house. The narrative explores themes of society, class distinctions, and the juxtaposition of urban and rural life as Dale navigates his new surroundings alongside his friends, including Arthur Angell and Philip Hume. The opening of the novel presents Dale in conversation with his friends as he prepares to leave London for Market Denborough. The characters express a mix of excitement and concern about the changes ahead, with Dale determined to embrace country life while remaining true to his artistic roots. We see glimpses of his motivations for the move, such as his desire to help a friend, Nellie, who needs rest. The interactions between the friends reveal their contrasting perspectives on status and success, setting the tone for the unfolding social dynamics in Denborough as new acquaintances and tensions arise with the local populace.
Compton MacKenzie
Plashers Mead: A Novel
"Plashers Mead: A Novel" by Compton Mackenzie is a work of fiction written in the early 20th century. The novel centers on Guy Hazlewood, a young man who has recently moved to the countryside to pursue a literary career while grappling with personal ambitions and societal expectations. Set against the backdrop of the English countryside, it delves into themes of aspiration, romance, and the complexities of social relationships. The opening of the story introduces us to Guy as he arrives at his new home, Plashers Mead, and grapples with feelings of loneliness and anticipation. He reflects on his recent life in a more sociable setting and feels the weight of expectations from his father regarding his choice of career. As Guy settles in, he finds himself recognized by local villagers, including Mr. Godbold, the trap driver, who comments on the remoteness of his new village. Guy's loneliness is compounded by the absence of his friend Michael, who left unexpectedly. However, a chance encounter with three sisters near the local river offers a hint of romance and companionship, laying the groundwork for future interactions and developments that promise to intertwine their lives.
Emma Marshall
Bristol Bells: A Story of the Eighteenth Century
"Bristol Bells: A Story of the Eighteenth Century" by Emma Marshall is a historical novel written in the late 19th century. The narrative follows the life of Bryda Palmer, a young woman living on a farm at a time when her family faces financial ruin due to her grandfather's debts. This quest for resolution takes her to Bristol, intertwining her fate with the esteemed poet Thomas Chatterton and the harsh realities of societal expectations. The opening of the story introduces Bryda's longing for freedom and adventure, as she seeks her grandfather's permission to work for a relation in Bristol. Despite her grandfather's resistance and the weight of familial disgrace due to her father's past, Bryda becomes increasingly determined to break free from her mundane existence. Her interactions with her sister, Betty, and the various characters in her life, including the boisterous Jack Henderson and the formidable Squire Bayfield, set the stage for a journey filled with ambition, challenge, and the pursuit of identity amidst financial crises in 18th-century England.
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.
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