This novel is a satirical portrayal of the upper class in England during the late 18th century. The story revolves around the life of a young man who becomes infatuated with the idea of being a fop, someone who is excessively concerned with their appearance and social status. The protagonist's obsession with his own image leads him to engage in various absurd and pretentious behaviors, which are meant to impress his peers but ultimately serve only to ridicule himself. Through this character, the novel critiques the societal values of the time, highlighting the emptiness and superficiality of the upper class. Throughout the story, the protagonist's relationships with others are also explored, particularly his interactions with a young woman who is not impressed by his attempts at being a fop. This dynamic serves to further illustrate the absurdity of the protagonist's behavior and the societal norms that he is trying to emulate. Ultimately, the novel presents a scathing critique of the excesses and superficiality of the upper class during this time period, using satire to highlight the flaws in their values and behaviors.
By John Gould Fletcher · First published 1927 · Genre: Poetry, Romanticism, Symbolism