St. Mawr / The Man Who Died : Book Review

"St. Mawr & The Man Who Died" is a collection of two novellas by the renowned writer D.H. Lawrence. These compelling stories delve into themes of identity, passion, and self-discovery, taking readers on introspective journeys of their own.

In the first novella, "St. Mawr," we follow the protagonist, Lou Witt, as she courageously breaks free from societal expectations and embarks on a journey to Argentina. Her desire for personal freedom and fulfillment leads her to encounter St. Mawr, a magnificent stallion whose untamed spirit mirrors her own. Through their bond, Lou's quest for liberation is beautifully portrayed as she explores themes of freedom and human connection with nature.

Moving on to "The Man Who Died," Lawrence takes an existential approach as he explores the resurrected Jesus' struggle with his dual nature. Through introspection and philosophical musings, Jesus grapples with the meaning of his existence, questioning spirituality, religion, and the complexities of being human. Lawrence's thought-provoking exploration forces readers to ponder life's existential questions.

Throughout both novellas, Lawrence's writing style shines, captivating readers with vivid descriptions and intense character development. His ability to create immersive settings enables readers to feel as if they are truly living in the worlds he crafts. Moreover, the complexity of his characters, torn between their innermost desires and societal expectations, adds depth to the narratives.

"St. Mawr & The Man Who Died" presents a profound and insightful exploration of human nature and the pursuit of personal freedom. Lawrence's masterful storytelling and rich imagery make this collection an engaging read for anyone interested in the complexities of the human experience. Whether it be the quest for personal liberation or the contemplation of existential questions, these novellas resonate with readers on a deep and thought-provoking level.

What are readers saying?

D.H. Lawrence's book "St. Mawr & The Man Who Died" has received a range of reviews, expressing varying opinions on the novel's content. Consisting of two separate works, the book explores the themes of female empowerment and the human relationship with mortality.

The reviews for "St. Mawr" encompass a spectrum of viewpoints. Some readers found it to be a thought-provoking and powerful exploration of female independence. They praised Lawrence's evocative descriptions and the depth of the protagonist's internal struggle. Conversely, others found the storyline dull and lacking engagement, criticizing the absence of a clear plot and slow pacing. Additionally, some readers felt the characters lacked complexity and depth, which was a point of contention in the critiques.

Similarly, the reviews for "The Man Who Died" present a mix of opinions. Many readers appreciated Lawrence's examination of mortality and the existential questions raised within the story. They found the writing to be profound and philosophical, commending the author's ability to delve into the depths of the human psyche. On the other hand, there were those who deemed the story confusing and disjointed, struggling to find coherence in the narrative and to connect with the characters.

Overall, readers' opinions on "St. Mawr & The Man Who Died" by D.H. Lawrence remain divided. While some were enthralled by the exploration of themes and the author's writing style, others grappled with the lack of a clear plot and the insufficient development of the characters. Nonetheless, Lawrence's inquisitive perspectives on female independence and mortality offer a thought-provoking experience for those with an interest in these subjects.