L. P. Hartley
L. P. Hartley was a notable English novelist and short story writer. His full name is Leslie Poles Hartley, and he was born on December 30, 1895, and died on December 13, 1972. He is best known for his novel 'The Go-Between', which was published in 1953. This novel is often considered his greatest achievement and is known for the famous opening line, 'The past is a foreign country: they do things differently there.' Hartley's work explored themes of innocence, class, and the past's impact on the present. He was also known for his psychological depth and the acute observation of social manners.
Books
This list of books are ONLY the books that have been ranked on the lists that are aggregated on this site. This is not a comprehensive list of all books by this author.
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1. The Go-Between
Set in the summer of 1900, the novel follows a young boy who visits a friend's family estate and becomes an unwitting messenger in an illicit affair between his friend's older sister and a local farmer. As the boy navigates the complexities of the adult world and the rigid class system of the time, he experiences a loss of innocence that has lasting effects on his life. The narrative explores themes of nostalgia, memory, and the corrupting power of class and wealth.
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2. Eustace and Hilda
"Eustace and Hilda" is a three-part novel that revolves around the complex relationship between a brother and sister in the early 20th century. The story explores their emotional bond, with Hilda being the dominant and protective elder sister to the more sensitive and passive Eustace. Their co-dependent relationship is marked by manipulation, guilt, and a deep yet ambiguous love. The novel unfolds their lives from childhood to adulthood, capturing the nuances of their relationship and the societal pressures of their time.
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3. The Shrimp And The Anemone
This novel explores the complex relationship between two siblings, Eustace and Hilda, during their childhood in the early 20th century. Set against the backdrop of a seaside town in England, the story delves into themes of innocence, cruelty, and the loss of innocence through the lens of their interactions and experiences. The title metaphorically reflects the dynamic between the siblings, with Eustace's vulnerability and sensitivity contrasted against Hilda's protective yet sometimes domineering nature. As they navigate their young lives, the book poignantly captures the nuances of growing up and the intricate bonds of family.
