The Go-Between Summary of L.P. Hartley's Book

The Go-Between by L.P. Hartley: Exploring Innocence, Deceit, and Desire

Published in 1953, The Go-Between by L.P. Hartley is a classic novel that delves into the themes of innocence, deceit, and desire. Set in the Edwardian era, the story follows young Leo Colston as he spends a summer at Brandham Hall, where he becomes entangled in a dangerous game between a farmer named Ted Burgess and Marian, a beautiful young woman from the hall. As Leo becomes the messenger between the two, he is pulled deeper into their secrets, leading to a shocking revelation that changes him forever. The novel is a poignant exploration of the boundaries of society and the loss of innocence.

Characters:

The characters in The Go-Between are complex and well-developed, each playing a crucial role in the unfolding of the story.
- Leo Colston: The protagonist and narrator of the story, a young boy who becomes the messenger between Ted and Marian.
- Marcus Maudsley: Leo's school-friend with whom he stays at Brandham Hall.
- Marian Maudsley: The beautiful young woman at the hall who is involved in a dangerous game with Ted.
- Ted Burgess: The farmer who is engaged in a secret relationship with Marian.
- Hugh Trimingham: Marian's wealthy lover who complicates the relationships in the story.
- Denys Maudsley: Marian's brother who adds tension to the dynamics at Brandham Hall.

Summary:

As Leo spends the summer at Brandham Hall, he unwittingly becomes the messenger between Ted and Marian, carrying letters and messages between them. As he becomes more deeply involved in their affair, Leo starts to understand the complexities of adult relationships and the consequences of deceit and desire. The story builds towards a shocking revelation that forces Leo to confront the harsh realities of the adult world and marks the loss of his innocence.

Analysis:

L.P. Hartley's The Go-Between is a haunting and poignant exploration of the loss of innocence and the complexities of adult relationships. Through Leo's perspective, the novel delves into the themes of deceit, desire, and the boundaries of Edwardian society. The elegant prose and intricate storytelling make the novel a timeless classic that continues to resonate with readers today. Hartley's masterful depiction of Leo's gradual awakening to the darker truths of the world around him is both mesmerizing and devastating, leaving a lasting impact on the reader.

If you enjoyed The Go-Between, you may also like Barry Hines's A Kestrel for a Knave, another compelling novel that explores similar themes of innocence and coming-of-age.

Final thoughts

To conclude, The Go-Between by L.P. Hartley is a powerful and unforgettable novel that delves into the complexities of human relationships and the loss of innocence. With its beautifully crafted narrative and evocative portrayal of the Edwardian era, the book remains a timeless classic that continues to captivate readers. If you are intrigued by the themes and characters in this article, we encourage you to pick up a copy of the complete novel or listen to the audiobook for a truly immersive experience.

9780940322998 (ISBN10: 0940322994)