Description
Discover the mesmerizing world of 'Hadrian the Seventh', a compelling narrative that intertwines the eccentric life of Frederick Rolfe, the self-proclaimed Baron Corvo, with his iconic creation, George Arthur Rose. This B-format paperback, published by Penguin UK in 2018, spans 368 pages of rich storytelling that bridges realms of daydream and diatribe. As readers dive into the experiences of the first English pope in five centuries, they encounter a character that is both flawed and magnificent, embodying the struggles of Rolfe himself—an unsuccessful priest and a misunderstood writer.
In 'Hadrian the Seventh', the protagonist's journey is a satirical reflection on the dichotomies of human nature, religion, and society. Embrace the vivid storytelling that also serves as a gateway into the mind of a man struggling with his identity and societal rejection. From extravagant living to abject squalor, Rolfe’s duality shines through the pages, inviting readers to explore themes of ambition, power, and the quest for redemption. This novel stands as a testament to the beauty of literature and the intricacies of the human soul, making it a must-read for literature enthusiasts.
With its intricate blend of autobiography and fiction, 'Hadrian the Seventh' is a defining work that resonates with anyone who appreciates complex characters and rich narratives. Order this BRAND NEW B-format paperback, complete with its ISBN 9780241313022, now and get ready to immerse yourself in one of the most peculiar yet profound novels of English literature.
Condition: BRAND NEW
ISBN: 9780241313022
Format: B-format paperback
Year: 2018
Publisher: Penguin UK
Pages: 368
Description:
One of the strangest novels ever written - part daydream, part diatribe and part autobiography - by one of the great eccentrics of English literature
The titlular character of Hadrian the Seventh is inextricably intertwined with his creator, Frederick Rolfe, the self-titled Baron Corvo. Both were Catholic converts and unsuccessful candidates for priesthood, who led bitter, misunderstood lives, betrayed (they thought) by friends, bishops and prelates. Both were at times struggling writers and failed inventors, their brilliance (they believed) insufficiently recognized, who lived alternately extravagantly and in squalor. Rolfe put all his obsessions, all his hate and suffering, his dreams and fantasies into George Arthur Rose, the outcast who through a bizarre sequence of events is elected Pope. Hadrian VII, the first English pontiff in five centuries, is a mass of contradictions- infallible and petulant, ascetic and corrupt, humble and despotic, he empties the Vatican's coffers to feed the poor and reshapes nations in a bid for world peace. With this blend of satire and self-knowledge which runs through the pages of this, his finest novel, Rolfe both vindicates and condemns himself.
In 'Hadrian the Seventh', the protagonist's journey is a satirical reflection on the dichotomies of human nature, religion, and society. Embrace the vivid storytelling that also serves as a gateway into the mind of a man struggling with his identity and societal rejection. From extravagant living to abject squalor, Rolfe’s duality shines through the pages, inviting readers to explore themes of ambition, power, and the quest for redemption. This novel stands as a testament to the beauty of literature and the intricacies of the human soul, making it a must-read for literature enthusiasts.
With its intricate blend of autobiography and fiction, 'Hadrian the Seventh' is a defining work that resonates with anyone who appreciates complex characters and rich narratives. Order this BRAND NEW B-format paperback, complete with its ISBN 9780241313022, now and get ready to immerse yourself in one of the most peculiar yet profound novels of English literature.
Condition: BRAND NEW
ISBN: 9780241313022
Format: B-format paperback
Year: 2018
Publisher: Penguin UK
Pages: 368
Description:
One of the strangest novels ever written - part daydream, part diatribe and part autobiography - by one of the great eccentrics of English literature
The titlular character of Hadrian the Seventh is inextricably intertwined with his creator, Frederick Rolfe, the self-titled Baron Corvo. Both were Catholic converts and unsuccessful candidates for priesthood, who led bitter, misunderstood lives, betrayed (they thought) by friends, bishops and prelates. Both were at times struggling writers and failed inventors, their brilliance (they believed) insufficiently recognized, who lived alternately extravagantly and in squalor. Rolfe put all his obsessions, all his hate and suffering, his dreams and fantasies into George Arthur Rose, the outcast who through a bizarre sequence of events is elected Pope. Hadrian VII, the first English pontiff in five centuries, is a mass of contradictions- infallible and petulant, ascetic and corrupt, humble and despotic, he empties the Vatican's coffers to feed the poor and reshapes nations in a bid for world peace. With this blend of satire and self-knowledge which runs through the pages of this, his finest novel, Rolfe both vindicates and condemns himself.