Things near & far

Metadata

Gutenberg ID

78106

Title

Things near & far

Language

en

Book source

Project Gutenberg

Description max 80 words

Arthur Machen's memoir blends literary journalism with supernatural anecdotes, reflecting on the decline of Victorian tavern culture and the deceptive nature of the senses. A witty, nostalgic, and mystical exploration of early 20th-century life, occult experiences, and the transition from traditional masculinity to modern sensibilities.

Summary up to 500 words

In *Things near & far*, Arthur Machen offers a reflective memoir tracing his evolution from a young journalist in the 1890s to a seasoned actor and occult enthusiast. The narrative opens with a sharp critique of modern journalism, lamenting how the pursuit of mass appeal has degraded literary standards and erased the dignified 'old tavern life' once frequented by giants like Dickens and Johnson. Machen contrasts the solid, masculine pleasures of the Victorian era with the frivolous 'Hookah Tea' culture of his day, arguing that the senses are often deceptive illusions rather than reliable guides to truth. The text transitions into a series of profound personal supernatural encounters. Machen details a spiritual transformation in the late summer of 1899, describing a state of 'dissolved bliss' that healed his soul. He contrasts this internal reality with the irrelevance of mere material phenomena, such as shivering walls or phantom smells, which he views as potential tricks of the senses or irrelevant distractions. He recounts his experiences on the stage, from playing minor roles in Shakespeare to the farcical comedies of the East End, highlighting the camaraderie of the Bensonian acting circle. He describes the unique challenges of learning archaic phrases for roles like Nym in *The Merry Wives of Windsor* and the relief found in the 'gross gaiety' of open-air theatre. The memoir concludes with a farewell to his career as a journalist, framing his life's work as a rescue from the 'mire' of triviality. Ultimately, the book serves as a testament to the enduring power of mystery, the loss of a specific cultural era, and the search for spiritual truth amidst a changing world. Machen asserts that while the physical world of the senses is largely an illusion, the true wonders lie in the spirit, offering a glimpse into a reality that transcends scientific classification and material perception.

LLM editorial rating

4.2/5

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Categories

• Biography
• Fantasy
• Horror