The Desultory Man Collection of Ancient and Modern British Novels and Romances. Vol. CXLVII.

"The Desultory Man" by G. P. R. James is a story that dives into the memories and feelings of James Young as he looks back on his life. The book is like a personal diary, with James thinking deeply about his past, especially his family, friends, and loves from when he was a kid. He thinks about happy memories and hard times, like losing his father and how his family struggled after that. A big part of his story is about his feelings for Emily Somers, a girl he grew up with. Through James's memories, the book shows how life can sometimes feel scattered and unplanned, touching on the important part of growing up, dealing with love, family, education, and how the past shapes who we become.