Its genesis a real attack on the Greenwich Observatory in 1894, Conrad’s novel offers an ironic meditation not only on anarchy and revolution, with all the deception and intrigue they imply, but also on loyalty – to friends and family, to country and ideals.Its genesis a real attack on the Greenwich Observatory in 1894, Conrad’s novel offers an ironic meditation not only on anarchy and revolution, with all the deception and intrigue they imply, but also on loyalty – to friends and family, to country and ideals.‘They swarmed numerous like locusts, industrious like ants, thoughtless like a natural force, pushing on blind and orderly and absorbed, impervious to sentiment, to logic – to terror, too, perhaps.’Considered one of Conrad’s most political works, The Secret Agent is set against the dismal backdrop of a drab and alienating London, and tells the story of the bombing of Greenwich Observatory by a group of anarchists.Shopkeeper, spy and reluctant anarchist Mr Verloc becomes embroiled in this terrorist plot, exploiting his mentally disabled brother-in-law Stevie in the process, leading to tragic circumstances.An actual event – a bomb attack on Greenwich Observatory in 1894 – provided the inspiration for 'The Secret Agent'. But Conrad offers more than a simple account of a bungled attempt at revolution. He provides an absorbing study of characters who disturb us as much as they enlist our sympathies. Mr Verloc, the secret agent of the title, who peddles shady wares; his anarchist friends – the ineffectual Michaelis, the philandering Comrade Ossipon, and the Professor, single-minded in his pursuit of the perfect detonator. Above all, it is the story of Verloc's wife, Winnie, and her journey from security to 'utter desolation, madness and despair.'A challenging and exciting story, rightly acknowledged as a masterpiece of twentieth century literature.Requires internet connection for purchase, plus iPod or other Audible-compatible player or iTunes software on Mac OS X or Windows• Available for the first time as a downloadable audio file.
Publicat de: HarperCollins Publishers