Heart of Darkness (version 2)

Description

Heart of Darkness is considered one of the top 100 most well-written English novels of the 20th century, and as you begin reading through it, you will definitely have a clear glimpse as to why that is.

Conrad uses this somewhat shorter, but no less insightful novel – when compared to many of his other works – to introduce readers to one of the central themes he engages in throughout his literary career: the fact that the “civilized” world and the world of the so-called savages of Africa is not all that different, the story forming a truly compelling parallel between the two.

Heart of Darkness introduces Marlow, the narrator and main character of Conrad’s story, who meets up with a few of his friends aboard Nellie, a boat anchored on the River Thames, in London. The story he recounts is mainly about Mr. Kurtz, a well-respected trading agent in charge of trading ivory brought from Africa.

Kurtz’s methods, far from being as respectable as his reputation, leave Marlow feeling contempt and even drawing the conclusion that Kurtz has “gone mad” as he hears of his plans in dealing with the African natives.

From attacks on the steamboat, to beautiful native women and conflicts of opinion that may save or threaten the lives of many, the story has virtually everything readers can think of when envisioning a truly fulfilling and insightful novel. What’s even more impressive, however, is Conrad’s ability to animate his stories, events and characters into a well-orchestrated, believable plot that will keep you at the edge of your seat throughout the read, while joining the narrator in tackling the real life issues of racism, greed and imperialism.

While Heart of Darkness is not necessarily among Conrad’s longest or most comprehensive novels, it is certainly among the most insightful and overall best works that the Polish-British author had produced throughout his career, right alongside Nostromo, Lord Jim and The Secret Agent.
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