Community Reviews

Rating(4 / 5.0, 66 votes)
5 stars
18(27%)
4 stars
29(44%)
3 stars
19(29%)
2 stars
0(0%)
1 stars
0(0%)
66 reviews
July 15,2025
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This is a remarkable book that delves deep into the complex relationship of a couple. It vividly描绘s their intense fights, which seem to be a constant struggle for power and understanding.

The story takes an interesting turn when the man's mind begins to collapse under the weight of the continuous conflicts. His mental state deteriorates, and we witness his gradual descent into confusion and chaos.

The author masterfully explores the emotions and thoughts of both characters, making us empathize with their situations. We can feel the frustration, anger, and love that coexist within the couple.

As the man's mind collapses, we are left wondering what will become of their relationship. Will they be able to overcome this obstacle and find a way back to each other? Or will this be the end of their journey together?

This book is a thought-provoking exploration of love, conflict, and the human mind. It leaves us with much to思考 and discuss long after we have turned the final page.
July 15,2025
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Calificación puramente personal. No pude conectar con la historia y me aburrió bastante. Es decir, la historia no me resultó interesante y me dio la sensación de que era una pérdida de tiempo. Sin embargo, es tan corto que me obligué a terminarlo. Aunque no me gustó, decidí leerlo hasta el final para no dejarlo incompleto. A pesar de que no logró capturar mi atención, reconozco que puede ser interesante para otras personas con gustos diferentes. Pero en mi caso, no fue una experiencia muy satisfactoria.

July 15,2025
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3/5 stars.
Hardcover, 75 pages.
Read on April 6, 2018.

Review at The Pluviophile Writer: https://bit.ly/2J3M6s7

The last time I read Conrad was in high school when I was devouring Heart of Darkness, a book that truly deserves a place on my reread list. One day, as I was sauntering through the library in search of a short read to help me catch up on my reading goal, I chanced upon this short novella.

Unlike the adventures in the Congo depicted in Heart of Darkness, this story delves deep into the psychological nuances of marriage.

Conrad was born in Poland in 1857 and English was not his native language. He didn't speak it fluently until his twenties. There are very few authors who can write as successfully in a second language as Conrad has.

It was a typical day for Alvan Hervey. When he returned home from work, he expected to find his wife there. Instead, he was greeted with a letter. The letter revealed that his wife had left home for another man. Alvan was beyond shocked by this betrayal and he began to spiral downward, examining his relationship. It became clear that Alvan was more concerned with appearances and the shame this event would bring him. As his frantic thoughts raced, his wife interestingly returned home. She had come to tell Alvan that she had made a mistake and that her affair was never consummated. However, his wife seemed distant and her return appeared reluctant, more out of a sense of duty than anything else.

The story is emotionally and psychologically driven, and anyone who has ever been in a heated argument with their partner or spouse can appreciate the tense environment created in this extremely personal setting. Published in 1897, this book offered a rare glimpse into the private lives of people at that time.

By the end of the novel, Alvan's revelations and jealousy had reached a new height. He couldn't cope with his own failings and the realization that there was no turning back in his marriage. The wife, although she had returned, had expressed her deepest needs that she felt were not being met and pointed out some painful truths that Alvan was having difficulty accepting.

The story presents both sides of the conflict equally, giving the reader an insight into the couple's troubles. By the end, the reader understands the choices made by both parties. If only we could have such clarity in our own relationship disputes!

This book is a great quick read and a good introduction to Conrad if you haven't read his works before. And if you're looking for another reason to read it, you can even read it online for free!

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July 15,2025
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Just a misogynist losing his temper and ego, not for me.

He is simply a person who holds a deep-seated hatred and prejudice against women. His outbursts of anger are nothing more than a manifestation of his fragile ego, which he tries to protect by lashing out at those he deems inferior. I have no interest in dealing with such a person. His actions and words are a reflection of his own insecurities and flaws, and I choose not to be affected by them. I will not allow his misogynistic views to dim my own light or undermine my confidence. Instead, I will focus on my own growth and development, and surround myself with positive and respectful people who value and appreciate me for who I am.
July 15,2025
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He thought about her from all possible perspectives, except from the fundamental one.

He thought about the well-educated girl, the wife, the cultured person, the mistress of his house, and the titled lady. But not once did he think of her simply as a woman.

This thus revealed his failure, an unequivocal failure, for he had not known how to observe, to be cautious, to distinguish.

He remembered all the streets, the elegant streets he had walked on his way home, all the countless houses with closed doors and curtained windows. Each one of them now seemed to him to harbor anguish and madness.

He studied the features of his wife as one observes a forgotten country.

July 15,2025
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I feel a bit ridiculous saying "astonishing" for the reading of a Conrad book.

But since I have snubbed it all my life and have changed my opinion so radically with this story, perhaps a bit of naivety is also acceptable.

Conrad's works are known for their complex themes and profound insights into the human condition. This particular book has truly opened my eyes and made me see things from a different perspective.

The way he weaves the story, the vivid descriptions of the characters and the settings, all contribute to making it a captivating read.

I am now eager to explore more of his works and discover the hidden gems within them.

Who knows, maybe there are more astonishing revelations waiting for me.
July 15,2025
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Alvan Hervey arrives home from work and discovers that his wife has written him a letter, even though she knew he'd be home for dinner.


He reads it, and suddenly, it feels as if the ground opens up underneath his feet.








It seems Joseph Conrad gets a mention in every book on writing I've ever set my eyes on.


So, I felt it was almost my duty as an aspiring writer to pick this up when I came across it at my local library. It's only a small book, so I was able to read it in a couple of sittings. And it's about time I read another 'classic'.






I wouldn't say this was the most gripping thing I have ever read, and it's not exactly a page-turner in any sense. But it is a thoroughly intense affair and captivating in its own way. As we experience from all angles the horror and frustration of the main character as he deals with the discovery of his wife's unfaithfulness, it draws us in.





It was first published in 1898 in a magazine called 'Tales of Unrest', but it is surprisingly easy to read and accessible, unlike a lot of books of that period. In fact, it could well have been written in the modern era.


Alvan Hervey, the main character, lives in a world of straight lines and hastily folded evening papers, a world that lacks passion and spontaneity. This perhaps is his downfall and ultimately, I think, the downfall of his marriage too. I like the overall message, the overall theme of this book, which makes me reflect on the importance of genuine connection and passion in our lives.


July 15,2025
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This short story penned by Joseph Conrad is a captivating piece that can be devoured in a single day. It centers around the couple, Alvan Hervey and his wife. One fateful day, when Alvan arrives home, he discovers a letter from his wife informing him that she is abandoning him for another man. Alvan, who has been so self-absorbed that he failed to perceive the crumbling of his marriage, is left in a state of shock and horror. However, to his surprise, his wife later returns and attempts to salvage their relationship.


The language employed in this story, characteristic of that era, is intense and highly dramatic. I hold Joseph Conrad in high regard for his remarkable language skills, considering that English was not his mother tongue. His ability to create such a vivid and engaging narrative is truly commendable.


From a contemporary perspective, the story is extremely emotional and dramatic, which might make it somewhat challenging for modern readers to fully relate to the characters. Nevertheless, it remains a work of a brilliant author and is well worth the read. It offers a glimpse into a different time and mindset, and showcases Conrad's mastery of the written word.

July 15,2025
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The story that managed to open the most secret door of marriage and reveal all its hidden demons.

One night of exhaustion is enough to completely strip two human beings naked, not in body, but in mind and spirit.

It is a story from which one emerges disillusioned with life, uprooted, and with an incommensurable weariness.

This tale delves deep into the complex and often tumultuous nature of a marriage. It shows how the pressures and demands of daily life can gradually erode the connection between two people, unearthing buried resentments and fears.

The night of exhaustion serves as a catalyst, bringing to the surface all the emotions and issues that have been simmering beneath the surface.

As the story unfolds, we witness the characters' struggle to come to terms with the reality of their relationship and the choices they have made.

In the end, it leaves us with a profound sense of the fragility of human connection and the importance of honesty and communication in any relationship.
July 15,2025
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**Onesto**

Onesto is a quality that is highly regarded in our society. It represents honesty, integrity, and truthfulness.

An onesto person is one who always tells the truth, even when it may be difficult or inconvenient. They are reliable and trustworthy, and others can count on them to do the right thing.

Onesto is not only important in personal relationships but also in business and professional settings. A company that values onesto is more likely to attract and retain customers, as well as build a positive reputation.

In conclusion, onesto is a fundamental value that we should all strive to uphold. By being honest and trustworthy, we can build stronger relationships, achieve greater success, and make a positive impact on the world around us.
July 15,2025
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I deeply share the hidden fear of Conrad, who is always in doubt if he can express himself in a proper way through a language other than his motherland's.

Looking back at his achievements, and essentially not from Conrad's great works, but like any other story of his, it is about a topic that is fresh, astonishing, and new for Conrad's era. A woman cheats on her husband, confesses, leaves him, comes back, and wants to try, for the last time, to save their life. With all this, when the truth finally emerges, and to a certain extent becomes clear, not only has the woman not sinned, but you also feel sympathy for her, as well as for her husband.

Regarding Joseph Conrad and his works, I have written more here http://www.goodreads.com/author_blog_...

Conrad's struggle with language is a fascinating aspect of his life and work. It makes us wonder how much our ability to communicate shapes our identity and our connection with others. His stories, like the one described above, often explore complex human emotions and moral dilemmas, making them both thought-provoking and engaging. We can only imagine the challenges he faced in expressing himself in a foreign language, yet his works have endured and continue to be widely read and studied today.

Perhaps we can learn from Conrad's example and strive to overcome our own fears and limitations when it comes to language and communication. Whether it's learning a new language, expressing ourselves more clearly, or simply being more open to different perspectives, there is always room for growth and improvement.

July 15,2025
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Excellent.

Outstanding.

Top-notch. These are the words that come to mind when we think of true excellence.

Excellence is not just about being good at something; it's about striving for the highest level of performance and achievement.

It's about going above and beyond what is expected, and constantly pushing ourselves to be better.

Outstanding individuals are those who have a passion for what they do and are willing to put in the hard work and dedication to achieve their goals.

They are not afraid of failure, but rather see it as an opportunity to learn and grow.

Top-notch performance requires a combination of skills, knowledge, and attitude.

It means having a deep understanding of the subject matter, being able to think critically and solve problems, and having the confidence and determination to succeed.

Whether in business, sports, or any other field, excellence is the key to success.

So, let's all strive to be excellent, outstanding, and top-notch in everything we do.

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