Futility – Novel: 0718 (Revived Modern Classic) - Softcover

Gerhardie, W.

Softcover

ISBN 10: 0811211762 ISBN 13: 9780811211765

Publisher: New Directions, 1992

Synopsis

"Futility" is astounding, funny, and enchanting novel which mixes eccentric Russian sensibilities with eccentric British brains, both richly possessed by its author William Gerhardie (1895-1977).

The novel's narrator, Andrei Andreiech, an Englishmen of Russian upbringing, recounts his entanglements with the Bursanov family and his love for Nina, the second of three of three beautiful sisters. The Revolution destroys the family fortunes, but Nina's father still pins his hopes on his Northern goldmines, gathering dependents who trail him even to Siberia. Andrei also waits, hoping his love for Nina will bring happiness. It is Gerhardie's vivacity and lightness of tone in conducting these meaningful yet ludicrous tragedies of disappointment that marks "Futility" as one of the great neglected novels of the twentieth century.

About this title

About the Author:

William Alexander Gerhardie was born in St Petersburg, Russia, in 1895. As a young man he went to London and, when the First World War broke out, joined the army. He was first sent to Russia and later travelled the world before beginning to write. Futility (1922), his first novel, was sponsored by Katherine Mansfield, and other notable works of his include The Polyglots (1925) and Of Mortal Love (1936). Gerhardie's writing was acclaimed as an influence on many of his peers, including Anthony Powell, H. G. Wells, Evelyn Waugh, Graham Greene and Olivia Manning. He died in London in 1977.

About this edition

• Publisher: New Directions
• Publication date: 1992
• ISBN 10: 0811211762
• ISBN 13: 9780811211765
• Binding: Paperback
• Number of pages: 194