Hilda Lessways (eBook)

Enoch Arnold Bennett, an illustrious figure in English literature, was born on May 27, 1867, in Hanley, Staffordshire. His career spanned multiple disciplines, including journalism, but he is predominantly acclaimed for his contributions to the world of novels and plays. Bennett's work is deeply rooted in the portrayal of life in the industrial Potteries district, an area he dubbed 'the Five Towns' in his prose. 'Hilda Lessways' (1911) stands as a significant example of his literary craft, serving as a sequel to 'Clayhanger' and forming part of his renowned trilogy documenting the life of Edwin Clayhanger. Bennett's narrative style intricately constructs a vivid panorama of early 20th-century Middle England through nuanced character development and a detailed exploration of the societal norms of the day. His extensive bibliography includes the much-celebrated 'The Old Wives' Tale' (1908), which further cements his reputation as a master of realism. Bennett's contribution to literature was acknowledged in his lifetime, and he continued to write and influence the literary scene until his death on March 27, 1931, in London. Despite the fluctuating critical reception posthumously, his works remain studied and appreciated for their historical and literary value, offering insights into the human condition amidst the backdrop of rapid industrial change.