The Mill on the Floss

Part of my reading effort in recent years is to revisit classic literature.  It is classic because typically these novels reveal much insight into general human nature and interactions.  Unfortunately these works are increasingly ignored in current public education, in favor of politically indoctrinating books.  Young people have no idea what they are missing, so many compelling stories and so much good guidance for how to live a meaningful life.  I just finished the Mill on the Floss by George Eliot, a pseudonym used by a female English writer.  She led an unconventional life for the times; choosing to live with her male companion in unwed status for an extended time.

Eliot is a tremendous writer, a master of the language, describing scenes with words that paint an easy to see picture.  Her revelations of the thoughts and reactions and conduct of the characters is astute.  The plot reminds you of the intense sense of class in Britain during that time, and probably still today, and the great fear middle-income people had of falling into poverty.  Pride in family and fear of causing disgrace is another theme.  As usual, there is some great romantic drama.  The young woman is the centerpiece of the book has an admirable character, which is found wanting by many of the other characters.  Her relationship with her parents, her brother, a cousin and various potential romantic partners is the essence of the story and in many ways is rather standard.  The ending of the story is somewhat forced and unrealistic I felt; an attempt to impart some moral lesson that I missed.

If you enjoy great writing, just take pleasure in the fine usage of the language, this is an excellent novel.