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Why does not some mental efficiency specialist come forward and show us how to make our minds do the work which our minds are certainly capable of doing? I do not mean a quack. All the physical efficiency specialists who advertise largely are not quacks. Some of them achieve very genuine results. If a course of treatment can be devised for the body, a course of treatment can be devised for the mind. Thus we might realize some of the ambitions which all of us cherish in regard to the utilization in our spare time of that magnificent machine which we allow to rust within our craniums. We have the desire to perfect ourselves, to round off our careers with the graces of knowledge and taste. How many people would not gladly undertake some branch of serious study, so that they might not die under the reproach of having lived and died without ever really having known anything about anything! It is not the absence of desire that prevents them. It is, first, the absence of will-powernot the will to begin, but the will to continue; and, second, a mental apparatus which is out of condition, "puffy,""weedy," through sheer neglect. The remedy, then, divides itself into two parts, the cultivation of will-power, and the getting into condition of the mental apparatus. And these two branches of the cure must be worked concurrently

In "A Great Man: A Frolic," Arnold Bennett offers a satirical exploration of ambition and the personal costs associated with the pursuit of greatness. This novella unfolds around the character of a successful businessman whose rise is accompanied by an array of comic misadventures and existential dilemmas. BennettAos prose is imbued with a distinctive blend of realism and wit, engaging readers with sharp dialogues and rich characterizations that reflect the societal mores of early 20th-century England. The narrative serves as a critique of the cultural obsession with success, probing the disparity between public perception and private reality, all rendered through BennettAos keen observational prowess. Arnold Bennett, a prominent figure in early modernist literature, drew upon his experiences in the potteries of Staffordshire to mold his narrative style, often reflecting the socio-economic issues of his time. His astute observations of the human condition and his own endeavors in the literary field illuminate his ability to weave humor with earnest commentary. Bennetts personal journeyAifrom a provincial upbringing to literary acclaimAifueled the creative drive behind this incisive work, addressing themes that resonate deeply in contemporary society. Readers seeking a blend of humor and social critique will find "A Great Man: A Frolic" a compelling addition to their literary repertoire. BennettAos unique voice and perceptive insights illuminate the contradictions of ambition in a world that often equates success with worth. This novella not only entertains but also invites its readers to reflect on their own definitions of greatness.

In "The Plain Man and His Wife," Arnold Bennett crafts a nuanced exploration of the mundane realities of marriage, set against the backdrop of early 20th-century English society. This novel employs Bennetts characteristic realism and keen observational humor, capturing the intricacies of everyday life and the often-unremarkable nature of its characters. The narrative unfolds with a delicate balance of sympathy and critique, allowing readers to engage with both the trials and triumphs of the titular couple, thereby illuminating the deeper truths of human relationships and social conventions during the Edwardian era. Arnold Bennett, a prominent figure in the literary landscape of his time, drew inspiration from his own experiences and observations of life in the Staffordshire Potteries. Raised in a working-class family, Bennetts firsthand knowledge of the ordinary existence of the English populace deeply influenced his writing. His desire to address the complexities of life beyond the sensationalism of literature led him to create works that resonate with authenticity and relatability, showcasing the struggles and aspirations of the common man. This book is highly recommended for readers seeking to understand the subtleties of marital dynamics, as well as those interested in the intersections of social class and individual aspiration. BennettAos insightful prose and rich characterizations make "The Plain Man and His Wife" a compelling read, inviting contemplation on what it truly means to live an ordinary life filled with extraordinary depth.

Arnold Bennetts "The Five Towns Series" comprises three interrelated novelsAi"Anna of the Five Towns,""The Card," and "Clayhanger"Aiset in the fictionalized industrial landscapes of the Staffordshire Potteries. Bennetts prose is marked by a rich, observational style that deftly captures the nuances of provincial life, weaving deep psychological insight with vivid descriptions of the socio-economic environment. This series stands as a critical commentary on the clash between individual aspiration and societal constraint, reflecting the authors own experiences within a rapidly changing industrial England, where the stark realities of class and ambition intersect. Born in 1867 in Hanley, one of the Five Towns, Arnold Bennett had a personal connection to the realities he depicted, which profoundly influenced his literary work. As a writer who bridged the Victorian and modern literary styles, he sought to reveal the complexities of everyday life, drawing from his own upbringing to portray the struggles and triumphs of his characters. Through the lens of his hometown, he explores themes of love, ambition, and the pursuit of happiness against a backdrop of industrial development. Readers who appreciate rich character development coupled with social commentary will find "The Five Towns Series" an enlightening journey. Bennetts ability to encapsulate the essence of a time and place through relatable characters and their intricate lives makes this series a critical read for anyone interested in the interplay of environment and human experience. This collection not only provides historical context but also resonates with universal themes of ambition and societal pressures.

"How to Become a Writer" is a book of practical advice for everyone interested in writing. Arnold Bennett provides useful advice on how to develop as an artist. He gives tips on how to start the creative process of writing and how to develop a unique literary style. Finally, the author provides a long list of recommended books written in English every person should read. How to Become an Author The Literary Career The Formation of Style Journalism Short Stories Sensational and Other Serials The Novel Non-fictional Writing The Business Side of Books The Occasional Author Playwriting Specimen Page Showing Correcting for Press The Authors Craft Seeing Life Writing Novels Writing Plays The Artist and the Public The Truth about an Author Literary Taste: How to Form It The Aim Your Particular Case Why a Classic is a Classic Where to Begin How to Read a Classic The Question of Style Wrestling With an Author System in Reading Verse Broad Counsels An English Library: Period I An English Library: Period II An English Library: Period III Mental Stocktaking

Arnold Bennett was born in a modest house in Hanley in the Potteries district of Staffordshire. Hanley was one of the Six Towns that were joined together at the beginning of the 20th century as Stoke-on-Trent. Bennett depicted Stoke-on-Trent as "the Five Towns" and it is a common location for his novels and stories. Anna of the Five Towns, was the first of Bennetts novels about life in the Staffordshire Potteries. The Clayhanger Family and The Old Wives Tale also draw on the experience of life in the Potteries, as did several of his other novels. A Man from the North Anna of the Five Towns Tales of the Five Towns The Grim Smile of the Five Towns The Old Wives Tale Clayhanger The Card: A Story of Adventure in the Five Towns Hilda Lessways The Matador Of The Five Towns These Twain The Roll-Call

In the comprehensive anthology "ARNOLD BENNETT Ultimate Collection," readers are invited into the richly textured world of early 20th-century England, as explored through Bennetts keen social commentary and vivid characterizations. The collection spans his most significant works, including masterpieces like "Clayhanger" and "The Old Wives Tale," showcasing his distinctive literary style that melds realism with a profound understanding of human relationships. Bennetts prose is marked by clarity and depth, often reflecting the socio-economic transitions of the Industrial Revolution, and offering a critical perspective on contemporary life in the Potteries. Arnold Bennett, a pivotal figure in the English literary landscape, was not only a novelist but also a playwright and essayist. His upbringing in the industrial heartland of England profoundly influenced his writing, which often celebrates the resilience and intricacies of ordinary lives. Bennetts experiences as a bohemian in London and his literary travels in Europe further enriched his narrative voice, allowing him to blend everyday realism with more universal themes of aspiration and failure. This ultimate collection is essential for both literature enthusiasts and scholars alike, providing invaluable insights into Bennetts thematic concerns and stylistic innovations. Readers will find themselves immersed in the concerns of a bygone era, while also recognizing the timeless nature of Bennetts explorations of love, ambition, and the human condition, making this anthology a remarkable testament to his literary legacy.

The ARNOLD BENNETT Ultimate Collection presents a comprehensive anthology of Bennetts works, showcasing his literary craftsmanship through novels, essays, and critiques that reflect the societal transformations of early 20th-century England. Known for his keen observations and vivid characterizations, Bennett employs a realist style that immerses readers in the lives of the working-class in the Potteries, with particular focus on themes of ambition, domesticity, and the complexities of human relationships. This anthology encapsulates his unique mastery of dialogue and detailed settings, ultimately offering a lens through which one can examine the intricate social fabric of his time. Arnold Bennett (1867-1931) was not only a prolific novelist but also a critical commentator on his era, significantly influenced by his own experiences in the industrial Midlands. His background in architecture and journalism informed both his narrative techniques and thematic preoccupations, enabling him to blend incisive social critique with compelling storytelling. Bennetts devotion to depicting the lives of ordinary people rendered him a significant figure in the development of modern literature, placing him amongst the literary giants of his time. For readers seeking an insightful exploration of the human condition intertwined with historical context, the ARNOLD BENNETT Ultimate Collection serves as an invaluable resource. This collection is more than a mere assemblage of texts; it beckons readers to engage with a rich tapestry of ideas and emotions, making it an essential addition to the library of anyone interested in the intersections of literature and humanity.In this enriched edition, we have carefully created added value for your reading experience:- A comprehensive Introduction outlines these selected works unifying features, themes, or stylistic evolutions.- A Historical Context section situates the works in their broader erasocial currents, cultural trends, and key events that underpin their creation.- A concise Synopsis (Selection) offers an accessible overview of the included texts, helping readers navigate plotlines and main ideas without revealing critical twists.- A unified Analysis examines recurring motifs and stylistic hallmarks across the collection, tying the stories together while spotlighting the different works strengths.- Reflection questions inspire deeper contemplation of the authors overarching message, inviting readers to draw connections among different texts and relate them to modern contexts.- Lastly, our handpicked Memorable Quotes distill pivotal lines and turning points, serving as touchstones for the collections central themes.

In "The Complete Short Stories of Arnold Bennett," the author presents a masterclass in narrative artistry, delving into the everyday lives of ordinary characters within the industrial backdrop of late 19th and early 20th century England. Bennetts literary style, characterized by keen observation and psychological insight, captures the nuances of social dynamics and personal aspiration. Each story reflects his belief in the beauty of the mundane, often employing a realist approach that invites readers to appreciate the subtleties of human experience and interaction amid the sweeping changes of the era. Arnold Bennett, a prolific writer and prominent figure of the English literary scene, drew upon his own experiences growing up in the Potteries, an industrialized area. His deep understanding of the struggle and aspirations of the working class greatly informed his storytelling. Bennetts desire to elevate the ordinary and to humanize the traditional industrial narrative resonated throughout his literary career, leading him to explore themes of identity, community, and the complexities of modern life. This collection is essential reading for anyone interested in early 20th-century literature, offering profound insights into the human condition. Bennetts deft prose and captivating storytelling will resonate with readers who appreciate the intricacies of daily life and the depth of character exploration. "The Complete Short Stories of Arnold Bennett" is a celebration of the intricate tapestry of human experience and a testament to the enduring power of short fiction.In this enriched edition, we have carefully created added value for your reading experience:- A comprehensive Introduction outlines these selected works unifying features, themes, or stylistic evolutions.- A Historical Context section situates the works in their broader erasocial currents, cultural trends, and key events that underpin their creation.- A concise Synopsis (Selection) offers an accessible overview of the included texts, helping readers navigate plotlines and main ideas without revealing critical twists.- A unified Analysis examines recurring motifs and stylistic hallmarks across the collection, tying the stories together while spotlighting the different works strengths.- Reflection questions inspire deeper contemplation of the authors overarching message, inviting readers to draw connections among different texts and relate them to modern contexts.- Lastly, our handpicked Memorable Quotes distill pivotal lines and turning points, serving as touchstones for the collections central themes.

e-artnow presents to you this meticulously edited Arnold Bennett collection. This ebook has been designed and formatted to the highest digital standards and adjusted for readability on all devices. Content: Novels: A Man from the North The Grand Babylon Hotel Anna of the Five Towns Leonora A Great Man Teresa of Watling Street Sacred and Profane Love Hugo The Ghost- A Modern Fantasy The City of Pleasure: A Fantasia on Modern Themes Buried Alive The Old Wives Tale Clayhanger Denry the Audacious Helen with the High Hand The Card Hilda Lessways The Plain Man and His Wife The Regent: A Five Towns Story of Adventure in London The Price of Love From the log of the Velsa These Twain The Pretty Lady The Roll-Call The Lions Share Mr.Prohack Lilian Riceyman Steps Short Stories Collections: Tales of the Five Towns The Grim Smile of the Five Towns The Matador of the Five Towns The Loot of Cities Mr. Penfounds Two Burglars Midnight at the Grand Babylon The Police Station The Adventure of the Prima Donna The Episode in Room 222 Saturday to Monday A Dinner at the Louvre Plays: What the Public Wants The Honeymoon The Great Adventure The Title Judith Non-Fiction: Journalism For Women The Truth about an Author How to Become an Author The Reasonable Life Literary Taste: How to Form It How to Live on 24 Hours a Day The Feast of St. Friend: A Christmas Book Mental Efficiency Those United States Friendship and Happiness Paris Nights and Other Impressions of Places and People The Authors Craft Over There: War Scenes on the Western Front Books and Persons: Selections from The New Age 1908-1911 Self and Self-Management Things That Have Interested Me The Human Machine

Richard Larch es un joven lleva una vida monótona y aburrida como oficinista en su pueblo natal, Bursley. Su ilusión y su sueño es vivir en una gran ciudad y dedicarse a la literatura. Para ello se traslada a Londres, alquila una habitación en Raphael Street, descubre la belleza de los suburbios, y todo ello mientras trabaja como oficinista para ganarse la vida, intentando al mismo tiempo publicar sus primeros trabajos. En este contexto tendrá sus primeras experiencias amorosas con Adeline, sobrina del señor Aked, excompañero de trabajo y futuro coautor de un libro dedicado a los suburbios londinenses. Pero la carrera literaria no resultará sencilla. Estará llena de dificultades y tendrá que elegir entre su vida personal y su vida profesional.

"The Card" is a comic novel set in the Potteries District of Staffordshire. It chronicles the rise of Edward Henry "Denry" Machin from washerwomans son to Mayor of Bursley. This is accomplished through luck, initiative and a fair bit of cheek or chutzpah. At age 12, Denry begins his career by altering his marks in a test sufficiently to earn him a scholarship to grammar school. At 16, he leaves school to work for Mr. Duncalf, the town clerk and a solicitor. When Duncalf organizes an exclusive ball, Denry "invites" himself and takes lessons from dance instructor Ruth Earp. On a bet, he audaciously asks the energetic, beautiful Countess of Chell to dance, and he thus earns himself the reputation of a "card" a reputation he is determined to cement."The Regent" is sequel to "The Card" in which Denry Machin returns, as the slightly more mature Edward Henry, a self-made success in the Midlands, who still relishes his reputation as a bit of a card. He has money, charm and ingenuity, but no taste. Despite his wealth and influence he is still in a need for an adventure so he decides to have a take on London theatrical society.

CHAPTER I. MENTAL EFFICIENCYCHAPTER II. EXPRESSING ONES INDIVIDUALITYCHAPTER III. BREAKING WITH THE PASTCHAPTER IV. SETTLING DOWN IN LIFECHAPTER V. MARRIAGECHAPTER VI. BOOKSCHAPTER VII. SUCCESSCHAPTER VIII. THE PETTY ARTIFICIALITIESCHAPTER IX. THE SECRET OF CONTENT

This preface, though placed at the beginning, as a preface must be, should be read at the end of the book.I have received a large amount of correspondence concerning this small work, and many reviews of itsome of them nearly as long as the book itselfhave been printed. But scarcely any of the comment has been adverse. Some people have objected to a frivolity of tone; but as the tone is not, in my opinion, at all frivolous, this objection did not impress me; and had no weightier reproach been put forward I might almost have been persuaded that the volume was flawless! A more serious stricture has, however, been offerednot in the press, but by sundry obviously sincere correspondentsand I must deal with it. A reference to page 43 will show that I anticipated and feared this disapprobation. The sentence against which protests have been made is as follows:"In the majority of instances he [the typical man] does not precisely feel a passion for his business; at best he does not dislike it. He begins his business functions with some reluctance, as late as he can, and he ends them with joy, as early as he can. And his engines, while he is engaged in his business, are seldom at their full h.p."

The Old Wives Tale deals with the lives of two very different sisters, Constance and Sophia Baines, following their stories from their youth, working in their mothers drapers shop, through the period of separation and quite different lives, into old age. It covers a period of about 70 years from roughly 1840 to 1905, and is set in Paris and Burslem, a town in the Potteries district of North Staffordshire.

In the autumn of 1903 I used to dine frequently in a restaurant in the Rue de Clichy, Paris. Here were, among others, two waitresses that attracted my attention. One was a beautiful, pale young girl, to whom I never spoke, for she was employed far away from the table which I affected. The other, a stout, middle-aged managing Breton woman, had sole command over my table and me, and gradually she began to assume such a maternal tone towards me that I saw I should be compelled to leave that restaurant. If I was absent for a couple of nights running she would reproach me sharply: "What! you are unfaithful to me?" Once, when I complained about some French beans, she informed me roundly that French beans were a subject which I did not understand. I then decided to be eternally unfaithful to her, and I abandoned the restaurant. A few nights before the final parting an old woman came into the restaurant to dine. She was fat, shapeless, ugly, and grotesque. She had a ridiculous voice, and ridiculous gestures. It was easy to see that she lived alone, and that in the long lapse of years she had developed the kind of peculiarity which induces guffaws among the thoughtless. She was burdened with a lot of small parcels, which she kept dropping. She chose one seat; and then, not liking it, chose another; and then another. In a few moments she had the whole restaurant laughing at her. That my middle-aged Breton should laugh was indifferent to me, but I was pained to see a coarse grimace of giggling on the pale face of the beautiful young waitress to whom I had never spoken.I reflected, concerning the grotesque diner: "This woman was once young, slim, perhaps beautiful; certainly free from these ridiculous mannerisms. Very probably she is unconscious of her singularities. Her case is a tragedy. One ought to be able to make a heartrending novel out of the history of a woman such as she.