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Hangover Square summary
Brief summary
Hangover Square by Patrick Hamilton is a dark and atmospheric novel set in 1930s London. It follows the story of George Harvey Bone, a man struggling with inner demons and unrequited love, as he descends into a spiral of madness and obsession.
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Hangover Square
Summary of key ideas
Exploring George's Psychosis
In Hangover Square by Patrick Hamilton, we are introduced to George Harvey Bone, a man who is deeply infatuated with a woman named Netta Longdon. Set in the 1930s, the novel takes us through George's deteriorating mental state as he struggles with his feelings for Netta and his own psychological issues.
George has a rare condition called 'dead moods' where he enters a trance-like state, during which he becomes a different person, a man he calls 'the beast'. This beast is a violent, uncontrollable side of George that he fears and cannot understand. George's obsession with Netta and his inability to control his beastly side lead him to a mental breakdown.
The Love Triangle
Netta Longdon, the object of George's affection, is a self-absorbed, manipulative woman who exploits George's feelings for her. She is in a relationship with a wealthy businessman named Peter, who is aware of her infidelities but chooses to turn a blind eye. Netta uses George for her own gains, taking advantage of his love for her to get what she wants.
George, despite being aware of Netta's manipulative nature, is unable to break free from her hold. He is convinced that he can win her over if he can just get rid of Peter. This delusion fuels his descent into madness, and he begins to plan Peter's murder.
The Tragic Ending
As George's mental state deteriorates further, he becomes increasingly consumed by his desire to kill Peter. He spends his days drinking in the pubs of Earls Court, a place he calls 'Hangover Square' - a metaphor for the state of mind he is in. His interactions with the locals and his futile attempts to control his beastly side paint a grim picture of his downward spiral.
The story reaches its climax during the Guy Fawkes Night celebration, where George's beastly side takes over, and he brutally murders Netta. The shock of his own actions drives him to commit suicide, resulting in a tragic end to the love triangle.
Unraveling Mental Health
Through George's character, Patrick Hamilton delves deep into the complexities of mental health and the impact of toxic relationships. George's inability to control his emotions and his descent into madness are portrayed with great empathy, shedding light on the stigma surrounding mental illnesses.
In conclusion, Hangover Square is a poignant exploration of unrequited love, toxic relationships, and deteriorating mental health. It's a dark and haunting novel that leaves a lasting impression, making us reflect on the fine line between sanity and madness.
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What is Hangover Square about?
Hangover Square is a haunting novel set in 1930s London, written by Patrick Hamilton. It follows George Harvey Bone, a troubled and delusional man, as he becomes obsessed with a cruel and manipulative woman named Netta. As his mental state deteriorates, the story builds towards a shocking and tragic climax. Filled with dark humor and psychological depth, this book explores themes of loneliness, unrequited love, and the destructive power of obsession.
Hangover Square Review
Hangover Square (1941) is a compelling novel that delves into the complexities of human relationships and the struggles of a man haunted by his own inner demons. Here's why this book is definitely worth picking up:
- Explores the dark depths of the human psyche, offering a raw and unfiltered look into the protagonist's inner turmoil.
- Paints a vivid portrayal of London in the 1930s, immersing readers in a rich historical setting that adds depth to the narrative.
- Keeps readers on edge with its suspenseful storyline and unexpected twists, ensuring that boredom is the last thing on your mind while reading.
Who should read Hangover Square?
Readers who enjoy psychological thrillers with a dark and atmospheric setting
Those interested in exploring the complexities of human relationships and the impact of mental illness
People who appreciate well-crafted, character-driven narratives that delve into the darker aspects of human nature
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Hangover Square FAQs
What is the main message of Hangover Square?
The main message of Hangover Square revolves around the complexities of love, jealousy, and identity.
How long does it take to read Hangover Square?
Reading Hangover Square takes a few hours, while the Blinkist summary can be read in a matter of minutes.
Is Hangover Square a good book? Is it worth reading?
Hangover Square is worth reading for its gripping narrative and insightful portrayal of human emotions.
Who is the author of Hangover Square?
The author of Hangover Square is Patrick Hamilton.
What to read after Hangover Square?
If you're wondering what to read next after Hangover Square, here are some recommendations we suggest:
- Eating Animals by Jonathan Safran Foer
- Fast Food Nation by Eric Schlosser
- Why We Get Fat by Gary Taubes
- The Omnivore's Dilemma by Michael Pollan
- Savor by Thich Nhat Hanh and Lilian Cheung
- Eat to Live by Joel Fuhrman
- Nutrition and Physical Degeneration by Weston A. Price
- Salt Sugar Fat by Michael Moss
- Mindless Eating by Brian Wansink
- The Twenty-four Hour Mind by Rosalind D. Cartwright