Clayhanger by Arnold Bennett AUDIOBOOK

Clayhanger by Arnold Bennett is a richly detailed coming-of-age novel that delves into the life, struggles, and aspirations of a young man growing up in the industrial Midlands of England during the Victorian era. Published in 1910, it is the first in Bennett’s acclaimed Clayhanger Trilogy, and stands as a powerful portrait of ambition, family conflict, and the slow emergence of individuality in a rapidly changing world.

The story follows Edwin Clayhanger, the intelligent and sensitive son of a domineering printer, as he tries to carve out his own path amid the rigid expectations of his family and society. Torn between his duty to inherit the family business and his secret longing to become an architect, Edwin’s quiet rebellion unfolds through moments of inner conflict, youthful romance, and the small but meaningful events of everyday life.

Bennett paints a vivid picture of provincial England—its smoky skies, bustling streets, and layered class dynamics—while offering a profound and sympathetic study of character and personal growth. Edwin’s relationships with his stern father, the enigmatic Hilda Lessways, and other key figures in his life highlight the novel’s exploration of generational tension, personal responsibility, and the search for fulfillment.

A compelling mix of realism, emotional depth, and social observation, Clayhanger is an absorbing literary journey for listeners who enjoy character-driven stories and finely crafted historical fiction.

Audiobook time & format : 20h10m20s, OPUS, 912 Mo

Audiobook free extract time & format : 5m (see below to listen), WAV

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