The Complete Works (eBook)

Arthur Morrison's 'The Complete Works' gathers the extensive collective narratives of an acclaimed English writer who found his niche in the domain of detective fiction and social commentary. Espousing a style that echoes the work of Conan Doyle, Morrison's creation of Martin Hewitt is a deft blend of charisma and sharp intellect—Hewitt personifies a less austere and more accessible detective than the famed Sherlock Holmes. The anthology not only exhibits the riveting escapades of Hewitt but also plunges into Morrison's grim depictions of London's East End through stories that are steeped in realism, such as the renowned 'A Child of the Jago.' Restrained yet rich in texture, the narrative tapestry is cleverly plotted and exudes a charm that juxtaposes brilliantly against the stark social realism represented elsewhere in this comprehensive volume.

Arthur Morrison's personal trajectory, rising from an impoverished childhood in the East End of London to become a highly influential writer of the late Victorian and early Edwardian periods, palpably informs his oeuvre. His firsthand experiences in the bylanes of squalor and survival resonate through his authentic portrayal of working-class life and characters. His detective fiction, while providing engaging entertainment, also conveys subtle critiques of societal injustices. This duality—of both escapist whodunits and gritty urban vignettes—emerges from a life lived amidst the very subjects Morrison so vividly sketches.

'Recalling a historical era with piercing insight, 'The Complete Works' is an essential collection that invites readers to dive into the multifaceted world of Arthur Morrison. Enthusiasts of detective fiction will find the series of Martin Hewitt stories to be a satisfying dance of intellect and wit, while admirers of literary realism are offered a penetrating look at the human condition amid the adversities of London's East End. This volume transcends mere entertainment, offering both a sociological window and a reflection on the human spirit. It is a junction where the comforts of genre fiction meet the discomfiture of social realism—a trove for those who appreciate thought-provoking literature.