The Hole in the Wall

"The Hole in the Wall" by Arthur Morrison is a story told by a young boy named Stephen, about his life with his grandfather, Nathaniel Kemp, who owns a pub called the Hole in the Wall, near the river in Wapping. We see Stephen's childhood world through his eyes, which is full of sailors, the docks, and some of the shadier parts of London, mixed with happy and innocent times. Stephen remembers his grandfather with love, but also knows their family life is complicated because his father is often away at sea. As Stephen lives at the Hole in the Wall with his strong and well-known grandfather, the story shows a lively place with interesting people, like questionable sailors, and complicated friendships, as it also suggests sadder parts of life, such as crime, death, and trying to survive, all while Stephen grows up.