The London Mercury, Vol. I, Nos. 1-6, November 1919 to April 1920

Metadata

Gutenberg ID

45116

Title

The London Mercury, Vol. I, Nos. 1-6, November 1919 to April 1920

Language

en

Book source

Project Gutenberg

Description max 80 words

This collection of the London Mercury from late 1919 to early 1920 offers a vibrant snapshot of post-war British culture. Edited by J.C. Squire, it features sharp literary criticism, diverse poetry, and insightful essays on drama, fine arts, and current affairs. The volume captures the intellectual ferment of the era, balancing serious political discourse with wit, humor, and a deep engagement with the arts.

Summary up to 500 words

Volume I of The London Mercury, published between November 1919 and April 1920, offers a comprehensive survey of the cultural and intellectual landscape immediately following the Great War. Edited by J. C. Squire, the volume presents a rich tapestry of early 20th-century thought, bridging the gap between wartime trauma and the emerging peace. The magazine dedicates significant space to the arts, featuring extensive reviews of modern literature by figures such as Max Beerbohm, Hilaire Belloc, and G. K. Chesterton, alongside a robust selection of poetry from Robert Bridges, Rupert Brooke, and Siegfried Sassoon. A major thematic focus is the state of the theatre; articles explore the 'Intellectual Drama,' the evolution of English opera, and the behavior of audiences, with lively correspondence debating the propriety of theatrical conduct and the need for a new English opera school. The volume also critically examines the National Theatre and the influence of existing institutions on artistic development. Beyond drama, the magazine delves into fine arts, discussing the meaning of Impressionism, recent sculpture by Jacob Epstein, and the works of Matisse and Renoir. Scientific and historical inquiry is equally prominent, with reviews covering Einstein's theory of gravitation, cytology, and historical analyses of the Reformation and naval operations. The collection further highlights the lives and works of forgotten satirists and forgotten authors, while occasional contributions range from architectural form in civilization to the life of George Borrow. Throughout, The London Mercury maintains a high standard of literary quality, offering readers a diverse and authoritative view of the era's cultural rebirth, from the scientific treatises on the foundations of modern physics to the philosophical reflections on the re-making of the human mind after conflict.

LLM editorial rating

4.2/5

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Categories

• Literature
• Periodicals