The Secret Power

"The Secret Power" by Marie Corelli is a story set in the late 1800s in Southern California, about a secluded man dedicated to books and science, living apart from society. He regularly interacts with a determined woman named Manella, who delivers meals to him from a local hotel. They debate opposing viewpoints on love, life, and relationships, mainly focusing on the man's negative feelings towards love and attraction. The story opens with rich descriptions of a peaceful landscape, in contrast with the man's isolated life. His name remains a mystery at first, but his thoughts on life and love are revealed as Manella communicates her desire for partnership with him. Their interactions go back and forth between friendly conversation to intense talks about love and society, immediately creating the readers interest in seeing their companionship mature. The interactions have hidden conflicts as Manella struggles with her growing feelings as the man stands firm in his opinion that true love doesn't exist. These subtle themes start an exploration of isolation, romance, existential investigation, and the conflict between emotion and reason.