In "Up and Down," by E.F. Benson, the protagonist, Mr. George, is a man who is obsessed with his own mortality. He spends his days pacing around his garden, contemplating his own demise, and the futility of life. Despite his wealth and privilege, he feels trapped and unhappy, and seeks solace in his own thoughts and reflections. The story is a bleak exploration of the human condition, and the futility of trying to find meaning or purpose in life.
By E.F. Benson · First published 1903 · Genre: Fiction, Satire, Comedy · 12 chapters