A Man From The North by Arnold Bennett

A Man From The North

Arnold Bennett | With a critical introduction by John Shapcott, Chairman of The Arnold Bennett Society

With the publication of his debut novel in 1898, Arnold Bennett announced his arrival as a major figure on the literary scene. Drawing on his own early experience of life in the Potteries and as a clerk in London, Bennett takes the reader on a journey from the social limitations and religious restrictions of provincial life to the worldly pleasures and temptations of the city.

Bennett paints a vivid and accurate picture of music halls, restaurants, seaside resorts, lodging houses and the growth of the suburbs at the turn of the century — introducing the great themes of love and duty, pleasure and pain, life and death that would define his subsequent novels.

From its depiction of a shop that will become famous in The Old Wives' Tale to the crowded and colourful scenes of London life, this is where it all begins.

• Critical introduction by John Shapcott, Chairman of The Arnold Bennett Society
• Cover picture: The Man with the Glass of Wine by Modigliani
• Published by Churnet Valley Books