The club of masks - Unveiling the Secrets of Victorian High Society

Allen Upward

Summary

In "The Club of Masks," Allen Upward presents a captivating exploration of identity, society, and the dualities of human nature. Set against the backdrop of an enigmatic society that dons masks as both a literal and metaphorical device, the narrative intertwines psychological depth with a rich tapestry of allegorical elements. Upward's prose is characterized by its eloquent yet accessible style, resonating with the Symbolist movement that influenced his literary context, inviting readers into a world where the true self is obscured by societal facades. Themes of authenticity versus artifice are portrayed through vivid characters, each masked by their own complexities, making this novel a profound commentary on the human condition. Allen Upward, a versatile British author known for his pioneering works in the early 20th century, drew from his eclectic experiences in literature, philosophy, and the occult. His fascination with the intricacies of personality and societal conventions is evident throughout this novel, reflecting the intellectual climate of his time, as well as his personal grappling with identity and existential inquiries, which influenced his imaginative narratives. "The Club of Masks" is highly recommended for readers who appreciate thought-provoking literature that delves into the depths of self-discovery and societal critique. With its masterful blend of storytelling and philosophical musings, Upward's novel challenges us to confront our own masks, making it a timeless read for those reflecting on their own identities in an often unrecognizable world.

Available since: 07/10/2023.

Print length: 176 pages.

Other books that might interest you

Black History Collection -...

Frederick Douglass, Harriet Ann...

America's black intellectuals - writers, historians, educators, and community activists - have made major contributions to the struggle for equality and human rights throughout American public life.
The key streams of thought that gave rise to the intellectual traditions associated with African Americans emerged in the 18th and 19th centuries. These same traditions continue to develop and influence social and political processes today.
This tome presents the collected writings of those titans of thought who laid the intellectual, cultural, and even emotional foundations for the modern African American movement.

Frederick Douglass; Narrative of the Life of Frederick Douglass
Harriet Ann Jacobs; Incidents in the Life of a Slave Girl
Booker T. Washington; Up from Slavery
W.E.B. Du Bois; The Gift of Black Folk

Show book

Self Reliance and Other Essays

Ralph Waldo Emerson

Self Reliance by Ralph Waldo Emerson is a powerful call to individuality, self-trust, and nonconformity. In this timeless essay, Emerson urges readers to embrace their own instincts and inner wisdom rather than bowing to societal expectations. He argues that true fulfillment comes from self-expression and authenticity, not from seeking approval or following tradition. With vivid imagery and bold declarations, Emerson champions the idea that greatness lies in independence, courage, and the willingness to chart one’s own path—no matter how unconventional. Inspiring and thought-provoking, Self-Reliance remains a foundational text in American transcendentalism, encouraging readers to break free from external influences and trust in the power of their own minds. 
Essays included in this collection are:GiftsUses of Great MenSelf Reliance

Show book

The Fallen Woman's Daughter

Michelle Cox

From the author of the beloved, best-selling HENRIETTA AND INSPECTOR HOWARD series, winner of over 80 international awards.
"Michelle Cox writes flawed, fascinating women with understanding, compassion, and grace—I rooted for them with every turn of the page!"— Kate Quinn, New York Times best-selling author
"An addictive read!"—Kirkus Reviews
"Cox offers a powerful saga."—Booklife, Editor's pick
"A piercing historical novel."—Foreword Reviews
When eight-year-old Nora arrives at the Park Ridge School for Girls in 1932, she is sure there’s been some mistake. She can’t imagine why she and her little sister, Patsy, were torn from their mother only to be subjected to the cruel whims of the house matron, Mrs. Morris. When their mother fails to rescue them week after week—and Mrs. Morris drops hints that their mother may be a “fallen woman”—Nora begins to doubt they will ever see her again.
Nine years prior, at seventeen, Gertie Gufftason runs off with Lorenzo, the barker for the traveling carnival passing through her small coal-mining town in Southern Iowa. Thinking she is embarking on a fantastic adventure, Gertie is bitterly disappointed by the life that follows and is thrown into despair when the State removes their two daughters.
Gertie eventually tracks down her girls at the Park Ridge, but, expecting a warm welcome, she is shocked by Nora’s cool reception. Nora reluctantly returns home with Gertie and Patsy, determined to live a more perfect life than her mother. It is only when she discovers a secret Gertie has kept hidden all these years that Nora begins to fully understand—and forgive—her mother’s tragic choices . . .

Show book

Dawn of the Dynasty: Book...

Margot Langley

This content is an independent and unofficial summary created for informational and educational purposes only. It is not affiliated with, authorized, approved, licensed, or endorsed by the original author or publisher. All rights to the original work belong to its respective copyright holders. This summary is not intended to substitute the original book, but to offer a concise overview and interpretation of its main ideas. 
At the crossroads of ambition and destiny, Dawn of the Dynasty unfolds a sweeping tale of power, legacy, and the birth of a new era. As rival houses vie for supremacy and old orders crumble, one visionary must rise above betrayal and conflict to forge a legacy that will echo through the ages. Rich in intrigue, emotion, and grandeur, this captivating story captures the relentless spirit and sacrifice behind the rise of a dynasty destined to shape the world.

Show book

The Cloud Leopard's Daughter

Anonymous

On the gold fields of the colonies, enemies are easily made. In the confines of a ship, they can turn deadly. For readers of Bryce Courtenay's POTATO FACTORY, Philippa Gregory and Tracy Chevalier. 
  
When Kitty and Rian Farrell sail their schooner Katipo III into Dunedin Harbour in 1863, they are on tenterhooks. The new Otago goldfields have attracted all-comers, including their friend Wong Fu from Ballarat, who has sent a message for their help. 
To their surprise, Wong Fu reveals he is more than a mere fortune seeker - he is in fact a Cloud Leopard tong master and his daughter, Bao, has been kidnapped and taken to opium-ridden China.  
Kitty and Rian agree to retrieve the missing Bao, but as they sail closer to their quarry the stakes jump dramatically. And little do they know that the deadliest threat lies in their midst. 
The Cloud's Leopard's Daughter takes us through dangerous and unpredictable shoals of love, lust, greed and opium, in search of not one, but two, fiery yet vulnerable women - puppets in other people's calculated games. 
PRAISE FOR DEB CHALLINOR'S A TATTOOED HEART'Brilliant finale to this series based on Australia's convict past' -- Jan GoodReads'... one of those books that you want to read slowly so it doesn't end but can't help rushing through to find out what happens!' -- Sarah Courtney, GoodReads'Fantastic end to the convict girls series! Couldn't put it down!!!' -- Catherine Maisey, GoodReads'Challinor is a good storyteller; her characters have depth and her historical backdrops are well researched, seamless joining fact and fiction and creating a convincing, atmospheric yarn' -- Bookseller + Publisher'Seamlessly fuses historical fact and engrossing fiction' -- Queensland Times

Show book

The Medicine Woman of Galveston

Amanda Skenandore

Once a trailblazer in the field of medicine, Dr. Tucia Hatherley hasn't touched a scalpel or stethoscope since she made a fatal mistake in the operating theater. Instead, she works in a corset factory, striving to earn enough to support her disabled son. When even that livelihood is threatened, Tucia is left with one option—to join a wily, charismatic showman named Huey and become part of his traveling medicine show. 
 
 
 
Her medical license lends the show a pretense of credibility, but the cures and tonics Tucia is forced to peddle are little more than purgatives and bathwater. Loathing the duplicity, even as she finds uneasy kinship with the other misfit performers, Tucia vows to leave as soon as her debts are paid and start a new life with her son—if Huey will ever let her go. 
 
 
 
When the show reaches Galveston, Texas, Tucia tries to break free from Huey, only to be pulled even deeper into his schemes. But there is a far greater reckoning ahead, as a September storm becomes a devastating hurricane that will decimate the Gulf Coast—and challenge Tucia to recover her belief in medicine, in the goodness of others—and in herself.

Show book