The story revolves around the life of Cope, a young man who lives with his mother and sister on the outskirts of Chicago. He works at a local factory but feels stifled by his mundane existence. One day, he meets a woman named Mrs. Wychwood, who becomes a catalyst for change in his life. Mrs. Wychwood introduces Cope to a world of art and culture, which sparks his imagination and creativity. However, their relationship is complicated, and Cope struggles with feelings of inadequacy and guilt. As the story unfolds, Cope's life becomes increasingly entangled with Mrs. Wychwood's, leading to a series of events that challenge his values and sense of identity. The novel explores themes of love, art, and social class, raising questions about the nature of creativity and the human experience.
By Henry Blake Fuller · First published 1893 · Genre: Literary Fiction, Romance, Adventure