Some do not...: A novel

"Some Do Not" by Ford Madox Ford is a novel that throws readers into the lives of Christopher Tietjens and his friend Macmaster, two important people in English society. The story kicks off by focusing on Tietjens' difficult marriage to Sylvia, who left him for someone else. As Tietjens and Macmaster talk, they touch on what's considered normal in society and what they personally believe is right and wrong. This sets us up for a deep look at relationships, doing what's expected of you, and figuring out who you really are. Right away, readers meet Tietjens and Macmaster on a train, getting a clear picture of who they are and what their lives are like. Tietjens seems like a thoughtful guy, struggling with his wife leaving, while Macmaster is all about getting his first book out there. Their talk shows how Tietjens is trying to stay strong even though things are tough, opening up questions about being a man, what society wants from you, and the tricky choices you have to make when it comes to love and being faithful. The beginning hints at problems to come and the heavy feelings that will shape their lives.