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An Accidental Man

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( 935 ratings, 80 reviews)
Book Hero Magic crafted this summary to help describe this book. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! Summary
An Accidental Man, by Iris Murdoch, explores the intertwined lives of a group of eccentric characters in London during the late 1960s. The story delves into themes of morality and chance, highlighting the humorous and sometimes chaotic events that shape their relationships and destinies. Through Murdoch's intricate narrative, the novel examines how accidental events influence the characters' lives and their personal transformations.
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Format: Paperback / softback
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Book Hero Magic created this recommendation. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! IS THIS YOUR NEXT READ?

You might enjoy this book if you're drawn to intricately woven tales of personal relationships and moral dilemmas set against a vibrant, multi-layered backdrop. With its deep exploration of character psychology and entangling plots, it's perfect for those who appreciate nuanced storytelling and philosophical undertones in fiction.

Book Hero thinking about your next read

This is the story of the comic, relentless struggle for survival of Austin Gibson Grey, the accidental man. In this role we meet Dorina, Austin's estranged wife, Mitzi, his alcoholic landlady, and a selection of other women who involve themselves in Austin's fate, with hilarious and appalling results.

'Of the novelists who have made their bow since the war she seems to me to be the most remarkable' Raymond Mortimer

Book Hero Magic formatted this description to make it easier to read. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! Description

An Accidental Man by Iris Murdoch is lauded by Raymond Mortimer as written by "the most remarkable" novelist to emerge since the war.

This is the story of the comic, relentless struggle for survival of Austin Gibson Grey, the accidental man. Austin thrives through the destruction of others. In Austin's case, the others include his successful elder brother, Matthew, and the women who, one after the other, are convinced they can 'save' him.

In this role, we meet Dorina, Austin's estranged wife; Mitzi, his alcoholic landlady; and a selection of other women who involve themselves in Austin's fate, leading to hilarious and appalling results.

Book Hero Magic summarised reviews for this book. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! HOW HAS THIS BEEN REVIEWED?

Iris Murdoch's work is celebrated for its vivid colour and fascination. Her exceptional intellect and storytelling abilities are widely acknowledged, with critics praising her mastery in character development and atmospheric detail. As one of the most influential writers of the twentieth century, she is lauded for her distinguished contribution to literature.

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Book Details

INFORMATION

ISBN: 9780099433569

Publisher: Vintage Publishing

Format: Paperback / softback

Date Published: 06 February 2003

Country: United Kingdom

Imprint: Vintage Classics

Audience: General / adult

DIMENSIONS

Spine width: 25.0mm

Width: 130.0mm

Height: 199.0mm

Weight: 283g

Pages: 400

About the Author

Iris Murdoch was born in Dublin in 1919. She read Classics at Somerville College, Oxford, and after working in the Treasury and abroad, was awarded a research studentship in Philosophy at Newnham College, Cambridge. In 1948 she returned to Oxford as fellow and tutor at St Anne's College and later taught at the Royal College of Art. Until her death in 1999, she lived in Oxford with her husband, the academic and critic, John Bayley. She was made a Dame of the British Empire in 1987 and in the 1997 PEN Awards received the Gold Pen for Distinguished Service to Literature.

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