The Light That Failed

"The Light That Failed" by Rudyard Kipling is a story set in the late 1800s, about Richard Heldar, a war artist, trying to deal with his past issues, love, and his passion for art. The story happens in both war zones and the art scene, dealing with themes of wanting to succeed, figuring out who you are, and how light and darkness affect life and art. The book starts by showing Dick Heldar as a kid and his connection with Maisie, another orphan. They both struggled growing up under Mrs. Jennett, who didn't care for them, and was very harsh. The kids become friends through their shared love of adventure, even practicing with a gun they found. Their childhood games mix with worries about their difficult lives, hinting at future problems. The story shows how their friendship grows, possibly leading to love, all while weaving together their dreams of being artists and their tough upbringing.