Windows   By: John Galsworthy (1867-1933)

Windows by John Galsworthy is a thought-provoking and emotionally vivid novel that explores the intricacies of the human condition. Spanning multiple generations, this book delves deep into the lives of characters who are bound by family ties, societal expectations, and personal desires.

The novel centers around the Forsyte family, a wealthy and respectable clan residing in England during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Through the lens of their experiences, Galsworthy paints a compelling portrait of the societal changes and divisions that marked this era. He skillfully captures the tension between tradition and progress, as well as the conflicts arising from differing values and ambitions within a single family.

One of the standout features of this book is Galsworthy's skillful characterization. Each member of the Forsyte family is vividly brought to life with their own unique quirks, desires, and flaws. Their relationships with one another are intricately woven, creating a web of complex dynamics that drive the narrative forward.

Furthermore, Galsworthy's prose is elegant and evocative, drawing the reader into the world he has created. His keen observations and astute commentary on society shed light on the shifting social landscape of the time. The book's exploration of the roles and expectations placed upon women, particularly in terms of marriage and career, is especially poignant and remains relevant today.

While the novel primarily focuses on the internal lives and struggles of the Forsyte family, it is also a testament to the power of setting. Galsworthy masterfully evokes the atmosphere of each location, from the grandeur of London to the idyllic countryside, further enhancing the reader's immersion in the story.

Windows is a compelling and introspective novel that offers a profound exploration of human nature, relationships, and the impact of societal change. John Galsworthy's masterful storytelling and unforgettable characters make this book a literary gem that will resonate with readers long after they turn the final page.

First Page:

The MARCH'S dining room opens through French windows on one of those gardens which seem infinite, till they are seen to be coterminous with the side walls of the house, and finite at the far end, because only the thick screen of acacias and sumachs prevents another house from being seen. The French and other windows form practically all the outer wall of that dining room, and between them and the screen of trees lies the difference between the characters of Mr and Mrs March, with dots and dashes of Mary and Johnny thrown in... Continue reading book >>