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The Puzzle of Dickens's Last Plot   By: (1844-1912)

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The Puzzle of Dickens's Last Plot by Andrew Lang is an intriguing and thought-provoking exploration into one of the greatest literary enigmas of all time. Lang, a renowned author and critic, takes readers on a fascinating journey through Charles Dickens's final unfinished novel, arousing curiosity and sparking endless speculation.

In this book, Lang meticulously dissects and analyzes the fragments of Dickens's last plot, offering readers a unique opportunity to dive into the mind of a literary genius. With meticulous attention to detail, the author meticulously examines each character, setting, and plot device left behind by Dickens, aiming to unravel the mystery of what could have been.

One of the most captivating aspects of Lang's work is his ability to blend historical context with literary analysis. By delving into the social and political atmosphere of Dickens's time, Lang provides readers with valuable insights into the potential themes and messages that the author may have been trying to convey. This interweaving of history and literary criticism elevates the reading experience and adds depth to the subject matter.

Lang's prose is elegant and engaging, making even the most complex ideas accessible to readers. His passion for literature shines through as he unravels the intricacies of Dickens's last plot, making it a truly immersive experience for any lover of literature. Furthermore, the author's clear admiration for Dickens and his works is palpable throughout the book, adding an authentic layer of appreciation to his analysis.

One minor drawback of The Puzzle of Dickens's Last Plot is that it relies heavily on conjecture and speculation, given the unfinished nature of the source material. While Lang's theories are plausible and well-argued, some readers may find themselves craving more concrete evidence or conclusive answers. However, it is important to remember that this is an inherent challenge when attempting to decipher an incomplete work.

Overall, The Puzzle of Dickens's Last Plot is an enthralling and thought-provoking exploration into the mind of one of the greatest authors in literary history. Andrew Lang's meticulous analysis, combined with his historical and literary contextualization, make this book a must-read for anyone fascinated by the enigma that surrounds Dickens's final plot. Whether you are an ardent Dickens fan or simply intrigued by literary mysteries, Lang's work is sure to captivate and satisfy your intellectual appetite.

First Page:

THE PUZZLE OF DICKENS'S LAST PLOT

INTRODUCTION

Forster tells us that Dickens, in his later novels, from Bleak House onwards (1853), "assiduously cultivated" construction, "this essential of his art." Some critics may think, that since so many of the best novels in the world "have no outline, or, if they have an outline, it is a demned outline," elaborate construction is not absolutely "essential." Really essential are character, "atmosphere," humour.

But as, in the natural changes of life, and under the strain of restless and unsatisfied activity, his old buoyancy and unequalled high spirits deserted Dickens, he certainly wrote no longer in what Scott, speaking of himself, calls the manner of "hab nab at a venture." He constructed elaborate plots, rich in secrets and surprises. He emulated the manner of Wilkie Collins, or even of Gaboriau, while he combined with some of the elements of the detective novel, or roman policier, careful study of character. Except Great Expectations, none of his later tales rivals in merit his early picaresque stories of the road, such as Pickwick and Nicholas Nickleby. "Youth will be served;" no sedulous care could compensate for the exuberance of "the first sprightly runnings." In the early books the melodrama of the plot, the secrets of Ralph Nickleby, of Monk, of Jonas Chuzzlewit, were the least of the innumerable attractions... Continue reading book >>




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