The Untilled Field By: George Moore (1852-1933)
The Untilled Field, written by George Moore, is a collection of short stories that offers a poignant exploration of rural Irish life in the late 19th century. Through vivid descriptions and compelling character studies, Moore crafts a profound and thought-provoking narrative that delves into the complexities of human nature, societal traditions, and the struggle for personal identity. One of the most striking aspects of this collection is Moore's ability to capture the essence of Irish rural life with such authenticity. His meticulous attention to detail transports readers to the picturesque Irish countryside, immersing them in the daily struggles and triumphs of the characters. Whether describing the lush green fields or the rustic cottages, Moore's vivid prose vividly brings the setting to life, evoking a sense of both beauty and isolation. The strength of The Untilled Field lies in the way each story intertwines and builds upon the others, creating a cohesive narrative that explores recurring themes. Each tale stands on its own, but together they paint a complete and multifaceted picture of rural Ireland during that time period. Moore skillfully explores various social issues, such as the rigid gender roles and the stifling influence of Catholicism, that shape the lives of his characters. Moreover, the characters in The Untilled Field are exceptionally well-developed, each possessing their own unique idiosyncrasies and desires. From the perpetually dissatisfied husband tormented by the ghosts of his past, to the strong-willed woman yearning for independence and self-discovery, Moore's characters come alive within the pages of this collection. Through their stories, he masterfully captures the intricacies of human emotions, offering profound insights into the human condition. However, despite the book's many strengths, some readers may find the slow pacing and introspective nature of the stories challenging. Moore's writing style is deeply reflective, often delving into the psychological depths of his characters. While this introspection lends depth to the narrative, it may not appeal to those seeking a fast-paced and action-packed read. Overall, The Untilled Field is a powerful exploration of Irish rural life that offers both a captivating narrative and profound social commentary. George Moore's lyrical prose and well-crafted characters make this collection a compelling and thought-provoking read. It is a book that leaves a lasting impression, inviting readers to ponder the complexities of human existence and the timeless struggles faced by individuals in a changing society. First Page: THE UNTILLED FIELD by George Moore CONTENTS I. IN THE CLAY II. SOME PARISHIONERS III. THE EXILE IV. HOME SICKNESS V. A LETTER TO ROME VI. JULIA CAHILL'S CURSE VII. A PLAYHOUSE IN THE WASTE VIII. THE WEDDING GOWN IX. THE CLERK'S QUEST X. "ALMS GIVING" XI. SO ON HE FARES XII. THE WILD GOOSE XIII. THE WAY BACK CHAPTER I IN THE CLAY It was a beautiful summer morning, and Rodney was out of his bed at six o'clock. He usually went for a walk before going to his studio, and this morning his walk had been a very pleasant one, for yesterday's work had gone well with him. But as he turned into the mews in which his studio was situated he saw the woman whom he employed to light his fire standing in the middle of the roadway. He had never seen her standing in the middle of the roadway before and his doors wide open, and he instantly divined a misfortune, and thought of the Virgin and Child he had just finished. There was nothing else in his studio that he, cared much about. A few busts, done long ago, and a few sketches; no work of importance, nothing that he cared about or that could not be replaced if it were broken. He hastened his steps and he would have run if he had not been ashamed to betray his fears to the char woman... Continue reading book >>

The Untilled Field By: George Moore (1852-1933)

The Untilled Field, written by George Moore, is a collection of short stories that offers a poignant exploration of rural Irish life in the late 19th century. Through vivid descriptions and compelling character studies, Moore crafts a profound and thought-provoking narrative that delves into the complexities of human nature, societal traditions, and the struggle for personal identity.

One of the most striking aspects of this collection is Moore's ability to capture the essence of Irish rural life with such authenticity. His meticulous attention to detail transports readers to the picturesque Irish countryside, immersing them in the daily struggles and triumphs of the characters. Whether describing the lush green fields or the rustic cottages, Moore's vivid prose vividly brings the setting to life, evoking a sense of both beauty and isolation.

The strength of The Untilled Field lies in the way each story intertwines and builds upon the others, creating a cohesive narrative that explores recurring themes. Each tale stands on its own, but together they paint a complete and multifaceted picture of rural Ireland during that time period. Moore skillfully explores various social issues, such as the rigid gender roles and the stifling influence of Catholicism, that shape the lives of his characters.

Moreover, the characters in The Untilled Field are exceptionally well-developed, each possessing their own unique idiosyncrasies and desires. From the perpetually dissatisfied husband tormented by the ghosts of his past, to the strong-willed woman yearning for independence and self-discovery, Moore's characters come alive within the pages of this collection. Through their stories, he masterfully captures the intricacies of human emotions, offering profound insights into the human condition.

However, despite the book's many strengths, some readers may find the slow pacing and introspective nature of the stories challenging. Moore's writing style is deeply reflective, often delving into the psychological depths of his characters. While this introspection lends depth to the narrative, it may not appeal to those seeking a fast-paced and action-packed read.

Overall, The Untilled Field is a powerful exploration of Irish rural life that offers both a captivating narrative and profound social commentary. George Moore's lyrical prose and well-crafted characters make this collection a compelling and thought-provoking read. It is a book that leaves a lasting impression, inviting readers to ponder the complexities of human existence and the timeless struggles faced by individuals in a changing society.

First Page:

THE UNTILLED FIELD

George Moore

CONTENTS

I. IN THE CLAY II. SOME PARISHIONERS III. THE EXILE IV. HOME SICKNESS V. A LETTER TO ROME VI. JULIA CAHILL'S CURSE VII. A PLAYHOUSE IN THE WASTE VIII. THE WEDDING GOWN IX. THE CLERK'S QUEST X. "ALMS GIVING" XI. SO ON HE FARES XII. THE WILD GOOSE XIII. THE WAY BACK

CHAPTER I

IN THE CLAY

It was a beautiful summer morning, and Rodney was out of his bed at six o'clock. He usually went for a walk before going to his studio, and this morning his walk had been a very pleasant one, for yesterday's work had gone well with him. But as he turned into the mews in which his studio was situated he saw the woman whom he employed to light his fire standing in the middle of the roadway. He had never seen her standing in the middle of the roadway before and his doors wide open, and he instantly divined a misfortune, and thought of the Virgin and Child he had just finished. There was nothing else in his studio that he, cared much about. A few busts, done long ago, and a few sketches; no work of importance, nothing that he cared about or that could not be replaced if it were broken.

He hastened his steps and he would have run if he had not been ashamed to betray his fears to the char woman... Continue reading book >>

Genres for this book
Fiction
Literature

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Wikipedia – The Untilled Field

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