Cleo The Magnificent; Or, The Muse of the Real: A Novel

"Cleo The Magnificent; Or, The Muse of the Real: A Novel" by Louis Zangwill is a novel written in the late 19th century. The book delves into the struggles of its protagonist, Morgan Druce, a poet grappling with self-doubt, ambition, and the realities of life versus artistic aspiration. Set against a backdrop of complex relationships, including his friendship with the cynical novelist Robert Ingram, the narrative explores themes of artistic integrity and the sacrifices associated with pursuing one's passions. The beginning of the novel introduces readers to Morgan Druce and Robert Ingram, who are engaged in a candid conversation by the fireside. Morgan reveals his turmoil over his failed attempts at poetry, grappling with the burdens of artistic ambition and a sense of existential crisis. Ingram, embodying a jaded perspective, acknowledges their differing temperaments and offers advice that seems both practical and dismissive. As their dialogue unfolds, Morgan reflects on his past, revealing a history of familial conflict over his artistic dreams, as well as the anguish of feeling friendless and unsupported in his creative journey. The opening establishes a rich emotional landscape that hints at the tension between aspiration and reality, setting the stage for Morgan's evolving narrative. (This is an automatically generated summary.)

Louis Zangwill was an English novelist; born at Bristol, England. He was educated at Jews' Free School, and for a time acted as teacher there, but left together with his brother, Israel Zangwill, and set up a printing establishment. Afterward, however, he turned to literature, and produced, under the pseudonym "Z. Z.," "A Drama in Dutch", which attracted some attention for its local color. It was followed by "The World and a Man" (1896), "The Beautiful Miss Brooke" (1897), and "Cleo the Magnificent" (1899), all distinguished by a certain realistic vividness and somewhat cynical sense of humor. He also produced a more sympathetic study, "One's Womenkind".