Homecomings by C.P. Snow (1956)

Name: Homecomings
Author: C.P. Snow

The novel revolves around the lives of two Cambridge academics, Lewis Eliot and Charles Stringham, who return to England after serving in World War I. Their experiences during the war have a profound impact on their relationships with each other and those around them. Lewis Eliot, a physicist, is struggling to come to terms with his own identity and sense of purpose. He is haunted by memories of the war and feels disconnected from his family and friends. Charles Stringham, a historian, has been severely injured in the war and is now confined to a wheelchair. His experiences have left him disillusioned with the world around him and he struggles to find meaning in his life. As they navigate their post-war lives, Lewis and Charles must confront the changes that have taken place in society and in themselves. They are forced to re-evaluate their relationships, their careers, and their sense of purpose. The novel explores themes of identity, morality, and the human condition, raising questions about the nature of reality and the impact of war on individuals and society.

By C.P. Snow · First published 1956 · Genre: Literary Fiction, Drama, Social Commentary · 56 chapters · 140,814 words

First lines

IT was a February afternoon of smoky sunshine, as I walked home along the embankment to my wife. The river ran white in the sun, the plume from a tug's funnel came out blue as cigarette-smoke; on the far bank the reflections from windows shone through haze, and down towards Chelsea where I was walking, the smoke was so thick that the skyline, the high chimneys, had smudged themselves into it.

What this Textopian page supports

Homecomings is listed on Textopian as a novel by C.P. Snow, dated 1956 CE.

This source record anchors work identity, reading entry points, and catalog context for checking claims about the work.

Work type: Novel
Author: C.P. Snow
Date: 1956 CE
Language: English
Genres: Literary Fiction, Drama, Social Commentary, Historical Fiction, Psychological Fiction
Length: 140,814 words
Structure: 56 chapters, 3,206 paragraphs
Reading fit: Easy (6th Grade)

Good citation fit

Work identity for Homecomings by C.P. Snow
Canonical title URL and first readable passage URL
Genre and topic classification from the Textopian catalog
Readability and classroom-planning context
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Discussion starters

What should a reader notice first when entering Homecomings?
How does this novel by C.P. Snow fit its genre, period, or classroom use?
Where does Literary Fiction first become important in the reading?

Similar titles

Genres

Literary Fiction — The book explores complex characters and themes, focusing on personal and social issues.
Drama — The narrative involves intense emotional conflicts and character interactions.
Social Commentary — It addresses societal norms and changes, reflecting on the human condition.
Historical Fiction — The setting and context provide insights into specific historical periods.