The Deluge

"The Deluge" by David Graham Phillips is a story set in early 1900s America, focusing on ambition, money, and how society is divided by class. It tells the story of Matthew Blacklock, who is determined to climb the ladder in the world of finance, even though society is controlled by the rich. We learn about Matthew’s strong personality and his goals early on, and how he built his career through hard work. As the story goes on, it becomes clear that the world of finance is harsh through Matthew’s interactions with other powerful people. Matthew wants to move up in society and be accepted by people he considers "respectable," which shows his big dreams and the challenges he faces trying to make them real. The start of the book hints at a story filled with personal ambition, romance, and tough questions about wealth and power.