The novel revolves around the life of Cope, a wealthy and charming bachelor who hosts lavish parties at his estate. He becomes infatuated with several women, including a beautiful young woman named Mrs. Van Vorst, but struggles to commit to any one relationship due to his fear of being tied down. As Cope's relationships with these women deepen, he finds himself increasingly isolated from the world around him. His parties become more extravagant and decadent, reflecting his growing sense of disconnection from reality. Through Cope's story, the novel explores themes of love, loneliness, and the corrupting influence of wealth and privilege. The narrative is a commentary on the social conventions of the time, highlighting the artificial nature of high society and the emptiness of its pursuits.
By Henry Blake Fuller · First published 1894 · Genre: Literary Fiction, Social Commentary, Drama