The Somnambulists by Jack London
This novel explores the lives of a group of people living on the margins of society, struggling with poverty and desperation. The story revolves around a young woman who becomes embroiled in a world of crime and deception, while also navigating her own desires and aspirations. Through her experiences, the novel examines themes of survival, morality, and the human condition.
By Jack London · First published 1903 · Genre: Philosophical Fiction, Satire, Social Commentary · 2,917 words
First lines
"Tis only fools speak evil of the clay -- The very stars are made of clay like mine. "
The mightiest and absurdest sleep-walker on the planet! Chained in the circle of his own imaginings, man is only too keen to forget his origin and to shame that flesh of his that bleeds like all flesh and that is good to eat. Civilization (which is part of the circle of his imaginings) has spread a veneer over the surface of the soft-shelled animal known as man. It is a very thin veneer; but so wonderfully is man constituted that he squirms on his bit of achievement and believes he is garbed in armour-plate.
What this Textopian page supports
The Somnambulists is listed on Textopian as a short story by Jack London, dated 1903 CE.
This source record anchors work identity, reading entry points, and catalog context for checking claims about the work.
- Work type: Short story
- Author: Jack London
- Date: 1903 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Philosophical Fiction, Satire, Social Commentary, Psychological Fiction, Allegory
- Length: 2,917 words
- Structure: 1 section, 22 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Standard (8th-9th Grade)
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- Work identity for The Somnambulists by Jack London
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Discussion starters
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Similar titles
- The Cathedral by Hugh Walpole
- A Shock by J. M. Barrie
- The Haunted Mind by Nathaniel Hawthorne
- The Mask by Guy De Maupassant
- The Doorless Wolf by Oliver Herford
- The Death Of Wandering Peter by Hilaire Belloc
Genres
- Philosophical Fiction — Explores deep philosophical themes about human nature, self-deception, and societal constructs.
- Satire — Critiques and mocks societal norms, human behavior, and the veneer of civilization.
- Social Commentary — Addresses issues of class, morality, and the contradictions within society.
- Psychological Fiction — Delves into the psychological aspects of self-deception and the human condition.
Tags
Psychological Fiction · Adventure · Mystery · Thriller · Suspense · Paranormal · Supernatural · Dreams · Nightmares · Sleepwalking · Identity Crisis · Memory Loss