The Plain Man and His Wife By: Arnold Bennett (1867-1931)
The Plain Man and His Wife by Arnold Bennett is a poignant and introspective novel that delves into the complexities of marriage and the shifting dynamics within a relationship. Set in England in the early 20th century, the book follows the life of a seemingly ordinary couple, Arthur and Edith Clayhanger. The narrative explores Arthur and Edith's contrasting personalities and their struggles to find a balance between their individual aspirations and their commitment to each other. Arthur, a diligent and ambitious man, is determined to improve his social status and make a name for himself. On the other hand, Edith, a traditional and reserved woman, finds solace in her domestic duties and the comfort of a predictable life. Bennett masterfully captures the nuances of their marriage, highlighting the persistent underlying tension caused by their diverging desires. As their lives evolve, the couple faces numerous challenges, both internal and external, that put their relationship to the test. The author portrays these obstacles with authenticity, skillfully depicting the insecurities, doubts, and resentments that arise within the couple. One of the most striking aspects of the novel is Bennett's ability to portray the complex inner worlds of his characters. Both Arthur and Edith are flawed, multi-dimensional individuals who wrestle with their own personal demons. Their journeys of self-discovery and growth are compelling, and readers will find themselves deeply invested in their fate. Bennett's writing style is elegant and thoughtful, filled with introspective reflections and profound observations about love, marriage, and the human condition. The novel invites readers to contemplate the meaning of happiness and the sacrifices we make for the ones we love. The pacing of the story is measured, allowing for a detailed exploration of the characters' thoughts and emotions. While some may find the slower pace a bit challenging, those who appreciate nuanced character studies will be rewarded with a rich and immersive reading experience. In conclusion, The Plain Man and His Wife is a deeply introspective novel that traverses the emotional landscape of marriage with sensitivity and insight. Bennett's masterful storytelling and well-drawn characters make this book a compelling read for anyone interested in exploring the intricacies of human relationships. First Page: THE PLAIN MAN AND HIS WIFE By ARNOLD BENNETT AUTHOR OF "THE OLD ADAM," "THE OLD WIVES' TALE," "BURIED ALIVE," ETC. NEW YORK: GEORGE H. DORAN COMPANY CONTENTS CHAPTER PAGE I. All Means and No End ......... 9 II. The Taste for Pleasure ....... 33 III. The Risks of Life ............ 60 IV. In Her Place ................. 87 THE PLAIN MAN AND HIS WIFE I ALL MEANS AND NO END I The plain man on a plain day wakes up, slowly or quickly according to his temperament, and greets the day in a mental posture which might be thus expressed in words: "Oh, Lord! Another day! What a grind!" If you ask me whom I mean by the plain man, my reply is that I mean almost every man. I mean you. I certainly mean me. I mean the rich and the poor, the successful and the unsuccessful, the idle and the diligent, the luxurious and the austere. For, what with the limits of digestion, the practical impossibility of wearing two neckties at once, the insecurity of investments, the responsibilities of wealth and of success, the exhaustingness of the search for pleasure, and the cheapness of travel the real differences between one sort of plain man and another are slight in these times. (And indeed they always were slight.) The plain man has a lot to do before he may have his breakfast and he must do it... Continue reading book >>

The Plain Man and His Wife By: Arnold Bennett (1867-1931)

The Plain Man and His Wife by Arnold Bennett is a poignant and introspective novel that delves into the complexities of marriage and the shifting dynamics within a relationship. Set in England in the early 20th century, the book follows the life of a seemingly ordinary couple, Arthur and Edith Clayhanger.

The narrative explores Arthur and Edith's contrasting personalities and their struggles to find a balance between their individual aspirations and their commitment to each other. Arthur, a diligent and ambitious man, is determined to improve his social status and make a name for himself. On the other hand, Edith, a traditional and reserved woman, finds solace in her domestic duties and the comfort of a predictable life.

Bennett masterfully captures the nuances of their marriage, highlighting the persistent underlying tension caused by their diverging desires. As their lives evolve, the couple faces numerous challenges, both internal and external, that put their relationship to the test. The author portrays these obstacles with authenticity, skillfully depicting the insecurities, doubts, and resentments that arise within the couple.

One of the most striking aspects of the novel is Bennett's ability to portray the complex inner worlds of his characters. Both Arthur and Edith are flawed, multi-dimensional individuals who wrestle with their own personal demons. Their journeys of self-discovery and growth are compelling, and readers will find themselves deeply invested in their fate.

Bennett's writing style is elegant and thoughtful, filled with introspective reflections and profound observations about love, marriage, and the human condition. The novel invites readers to contemplate the meaning of happiness and the sacrifices we make for the ones we love.

The pacing of the story is measured, allowing for a detailed exploration of the characters' thoughts and emotions. While some may find the slower pace a bit challenging, those who appreciate nuanced character studies will be rewarded with a rich and immersive reading experience.

In conclusion, The Plain Man and His Wife is a deeply introspective novel that traverses the emotional landscape of marriage with sensitivity and insight. Bennett's masterful storytelling and well-drawn characters make this book a compelling read for anyone interested in exploring the intricacies of human relationships.

First Page:

THE PLAIN MAN AND HIS WIFE

By ARNOLD BENNETT

AUTHOR OF "THE OLD ADAM," "THE OLD WIVES' TALE," "BURIED ALIVE," ETC.

NEW YORK: GEORGE H. DORAN COMPANY

CONTENTS

CHAPTER PAGE

I. All Means and No End ......... 9

II. The Taste for Pleasure ....... 33

III. The Risks of Life ............ 60

IV. In Her Place ................. 87

THE PLAIN MAN AND HIS WIFE

I ALL MEANS AND NO END

The plain man on a plain day wakes up, slowly or quickly according to his temperament, and greets the day in a mental posture which might be thus expressed in words:

"Oh, Lord! Another day! What a grind!"

If you ask me whom I mean by the plain man, my reply is that I mean almost every man. I mean you. I certainly mean me. I mean the rich and the poor, the successful and the unsuccessful, the idle and the diligent, the luxurious and the austere. For, what with the limits of digestion, the practical impossibility of wearing two neckties at once, the insecurity of investments, the responsibilities of wealth and of success, the exhaustingness of the search for pleasure, and the cheapness of travel the real differences between one sort of plain man and another are slight in these times. (And indeed they always were slight.)

The plain man has a lot to do before he may have his breakfast and he must do it... Continue reading book >>

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