Of No Account

Of No Account by Ruth Lamb (1972)

In "Of No Account" by Ruth Lamb, the story revolves around Adam Livesey, a man who feels insignificant and undervalued in a harsh world. Adam's life is marked by hardship and sacrifice, having been forced to work from a young age to support his family after his father's death. His mother, Mrs. Livesey, is depicted as a woman who has given up on life after her husband's passing, leaving Adam to fend for himself emotionally and financially. Despite his struggles, Adam remains a dutiful son and later a devoted husband to Maggie, a lively and affectionate woman who becomes worn down by the demands of motherhood and poverty. The narrative explores themes of love, sacrifice, and the search for meaning in a seemingly indifferent world. Adam's journey is one of quiet endurance, as he grapples with feelings of inadequacy and the desire for a better life. His interactions with Mr. Drummond, a new manager at the foundry where Adam works, introduce him to the possibility of spiritual fulfillment and self-worth beyond material success. Mr. Drummond's kindness and faith inspire Adam to seek a deeper understanding of himself and his place in the world. Throughout the story, Adam's internal struggle is mirrored by the external challenges he faces, including the strain on his marriage as Maggie becomes increasingly disillusioned with their circumstances. The narrative delves into the complexities of human relationships, highlighting the impact of unspoken emotions and unmet needs on personal and familial dynamics. Ultimately, "Of No Account" is a poignant exploration of the human condition, emphasizing the transformative power of love, faith, and perseverance in the face of adversity. Through Adam's journey, the story conveys a message of hope and redemption, suggesting that even those who feel insignificant can find purpose and fulfillment through connection with others and a deeper understanding of themselves.

By Ruth Lamb · First published 1972 · Genre: Historical Fiction, Women's Fiction, Family Saga · 23 chapters · 68,442 words

First lines

"I DON'T know why you should trouble yourself to come after me. I'm o' no account. What matter does it make whether a poor chap like me spends his Sundays at home or in the streets, at church or in a church with a chimney?"

The speaker, Adam Livesey, was a man whose appearance suggested that the world had dealt hardly with him, and that he had found life, regarded as a journey, very rough travelling.

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Of No Account is listed on Textopian as a novel by Ruth Lamb, dated 1972 CE.

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Genres

Tags

fiction · novel · drama · mystery · thriller · suspense · crime · psychological · intrigue · betrayal · redemption · twists

Contents

More by Ruth Lamb