Possession

In 'Possession' by A. S. Byatt, two modern scholars, Roland and Maud, embark on an intellectual treasure hunt through Victorian England, uncovering a secret affair between two renowned poets. As they delve deeper into the poets' correspondence, they confront their own emotional entanglements and the impact of love and art across time. The narrative intricately weaves poetry, history, and romance, revealing how the past shapes the present. With a blend of wit and erudition, Byatt explores themes of obsession, creativity, and the quest for truth. Readers will be captivated by the layers of mystery and the tantalizing question: how far will one go to possess knowledge and love?

By A. S. Byatt

Published: 1991

"We can only see the past in glimpses; we can only see the future through dreams."

PossessionBook binding

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What Readers Say About This Book

BOOKER PRIZE WINNER • NATIONAL BESTSELLER • A tale of two young scholars researching the secret love affair of two Victorian poets that's an exhilarating novel of wit and romance, an intellectual mystery, and a triumphant love story. “Gorgeously written … A tour de force.” —The New York Times Book Review Winner of England’s Booker Prize and a literary sensation, Possession traces the lives of a pair of young academics as they uncover a clandestine relationship between two long-dead Victorian poets. As they unearth their letters, journals, and poems, and track their movements from London to Yorkshire—from spiritualist séances to the fairy-haunted far west of Brittany—what emerges is an extraordinary counterpoint of passions and ideas.

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About the Author

A

A. S. Byatt

A. S. Byatt is a renowned British author known for her richly textured narratives and intricate explorations of art and culture. Born on August 24, 1936, Byatt's works often blend elements of literary fiction, historical fiction, and philosophical inquiry. She gained international acclaim for her award-winning novel 'Possession: A Romance,' which won the Booker Prize in 1990. Other notable works include 'The Children's Book,' 'Bangkok 8,' and 'Angels & Insects.' Byatt's writing is characterized by its intellectual depth, lyrical prose, and a keen insight into the human condition, often interweaving threads of personal and historical narratives.

Book Details

Key information about the book.

Authors
A. S. Byatt
Published
October 1991
Publisher
Vintage
ISBN
0679735909
Language
English
Pages
578
Genres
Historical FictionRomanceFictionLiterature

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We can only see the past in glimpses; we can only see the future through dreams.

Possession

By A. S. Byatt

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