Saint's Progress   By: John Galsworthy (1867-1933)

Saint's Progress by John Galsworthy is a thought-provoking novel that delves deep into the complexities of human relationships and the eternal struggle between societal conventions and individual freedom. Set in the early 20th century, the story follows the life of Noel and his wife, Dinny, as they navigate the challenges of a changing world.

Galsworthy's writing style is immersive and eloquent, capturing the essence of the characters' emotions and inner turmoil. He weaves a tale that not only highlights the conflicts within the relationships of the main characters but also explores broader themes of morality, duty, and the clash of old and new values.

The protagonist, Noel, is a conflicted character torn between his sense of responsibility towards his family and his desire for personal fulfillment. As the story progresses, the readers witness his evolution as he struggles to reconcile society's expectations with his own yearnings. His internal battle creates a strong sense of empathy, as his journey becomes all too relatable to anyone who has ever faced a similar conflict between self-expression and societal norms.

Dinny, Noel's wife, embarks on her own personal journey throughout the novel. Despite initially conforming to the limited expectations of a woman in that era, she slowly emerges as a strong, independent character, unafraid to challenge the status quo. Her character development adds depth and substance to the novel, as she becomes a symbol of the changing times and the gradual empowerment of women.

What sets Saint's Progress apart is Galsworthy's insightful exploration of morality and the consequences of one's choices. The novel confronts the reader with ethical dilemmas and poses challenging questions about the nature of goodness, fidelity, and personal happiness. Galsworthy does not shy away from the complexities of human nature, presenting flawed characters grappling with their own limitations and making difficult decisions.

The pacing of the story is well-balanced, allowing for moments of reflection and introspection amidst the unfolding events. The plot takes unexpected turns, keeping the reader engaged and invested in the characters' fates. Galsworthy's ability to create an atmosphere of tension and uncertainty intensifies the emotional impact of the narrative, leaving a lasting impression.

In conclusion, Saint's Progress is a timeless novel that explores the intricate dynamics of human relationships and the struggle to find one's own path in a society filled with constraints. Galsworthy's impeccable writing and profound insights into human nature make this book a compelling read for anyone interested in thought-provoking literature.

First Page:

Such a day made glad the heart. All the flags of July were waving; the sun and the poppies flaming; white butterflies spiring up and twining, and the bees busy on the snapdragons. The lime trees were coming into flower. Tall white lilies in the garden beds already rivaled the delphiniums; the York and Lancaster roses were full blown round their golden hearts. There was a gentle breeze, and a swish and stir and hum rose and fell above the head of Edward Pierson, coming back from his lonely ramble over Tintern Abbey. He had arrived at Kestrel, his brother Robert's home on the bank of the Wye only that morning, having stayed at Bath on the way down; and now he had got his face burnt in that parti coloured way peculiar to the faces of those who have been too long in London. As he came along the narrow, rather overgrown avenue, the sound of a waltz thrummed out on a piano fell on his ears, and he smiled, for music was the greatest passion he had. His dark grizzled hair was pushed back off his hot brow, which he fanned with his straw hat. Though not broad, that brow was the broadest part of a narrow oval face whose length was increased by a short, dark, pointed beard a visage such as Vandyk might have painted, grave and gentle, but for its bright grey eyes, cinder lashed and crow's footed, and its strange look of not seeing what was before it... Continue reading book >>