Chance by Joseph Conrad (1913)

Name: Chance
Author: Joseph Conrad

The novel revolves around the theme of chance and its role in shaping human lives. It follows the story of a young man who becomes embroiled in a complex web of events that ultimately lead to his downfall. The narrative explores the concept of fate versus free will, suggesting that chance plays a significant role in determining the course of one's life. The protagonist's actions are influenced by a series of coincidences and unforeseen circumstances that contribute to his tragic demise. Throughout the novel, Conrad critiques the notion of determinism, arguing that human beings have agency but are also subject to the whims of chance. This tension between fate and free will is central to the narrative, raising questions about the nature of morality and responsibility. The novel's exploration of chance serves as a commentary on the fragility of human existence and the unpredictability of life.

By Joseph Conrad · First published 1913 · Genre: Literary Fiction, Psychological Fiction, Adventure Fiction · 13 chapters · 161,151 words

First lines

I believe he had seen us out of the window coming off to dine in the dinghy of a fourteen-ton yawl belonging to Marlow my host and skipper. We helped the boy we had with us to haul the boat up on the landing-stage before we went up to the riverside inn, where we found our new acquaintance eating his dinner in dignified loneliness at the head of a long table, white and inhospitable like a snow bank.

What this Textopian page supports

Chance is listed on Textopian as a novel by Joseph Conrad, dated 1913 CE.

This source record anchors work identity, reading entry points, and catalog context for checking claims about the work.

Work type: Novel
Author: Joseph Conrad
Date: 1913 CE
Language: English
Genres: Literary Fiction, Psychological Fiction, Adventure Fiction, Philosophical Fiction, Historical Fiction
Length: 161,151 words
Structure: 13 chapters, 1,914 paragraphs
Reading fit: Easy (6th Grade)

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Canonical title URL and first readable passage URL
Genre and topic classification from the Textopian catalog
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Discussion starters

What should a reader notice first when entering Chance?
How does this novel by Joseph Conrad fit its genre, period, or classroom use?
Where does Literary Fiction first become important in the reading?

Similar titles

Genres

Literary Fiction — The work explores complex themes of chance, fate, and human experience with a focus on character development and stylistic depth.
Psychological Fiction — The narrative delves into the inner thoughts and motivations of characters, examining their psychological states and moral dilemmas.
Adventure Fiction — The plot involves elements of adventure and exploration, particularly in maritime settings, contributing to the overall narrative tension.
Philosophical Fiction — The text raises questions about existence, morality, and the nature of chance, prompting readers to reflect on deeper philosophical issues.