The Strange Ride of Rudyard Kipling: His Life and Works : Book Review

"The Strange Ride of Rudyard Kipling" by Angus Wilson offers a captivating and comprehensive account of the life and literary journey of Rudyard Kipling, one of the most renowned English writers of the 19th century. Wilson's meticulous research and keen insights make this biography a must-read for fans of Kipling and those interested in the history of English literature.

Wilson skillfully delves into Kipling's personal and professional life, providing readers with a deeper understanding of the man behind the famous works. The book explores Kipling's troubled childhood, his successful writing career, and the complex relationships he had with his family and peers. Through Wilson's exploration, readers gain insight into the underlying motivations and inspirations behind Kipling's works, appreciating his ability to tackle social and political issues of his time.

One of the highlights of Wilson's biography is his exploration of Kipling's personal life. Wilson portrays Kipling as a flawed and complex individual, adding depth and richness to the narrative. This portrayal paints a vivid picture of the man behind the words, offering a nuanced understanding of Kipling's struggles and triumphs.

Moreover, Wilson seamlessly weaves in historical context, creating a broader understanding of the world in which Kipling lived and worked. This contextualization adds an additional layer of depth to the biography, making it a valuable resource for scholars and enthusiasts alike.

Overall, "The Strange Ride of Rudyard Kipling" is a masterful biography that brings Kipling and his literary achievements to life. Through meticulous research and nuanced analysis, Wilson offers readers a deeper understanding of both the man and his art. This biography is a must-read for anyone interested in Kipling, English literature, or the cultural history of the 19th century.

What are readers saying?

"The Strange Ride of Rudyard Kipling" by Angus Wilson is a critically acclaimed book that has received a mix of reviews. This novel delves into the life and career of renowned author Rudyard Kipling, exploring his complex personality and controversial viewpoints. The reviews offer a variety of perspectives, with some readers praising Wilson's insightful portrayal of Kipling's character, while others criticize the book for its slow pacing and lack of depth.

Many readers appreciated Angus Wilson's meticulous research and attention to detail in depicting Rudyard Kipling. They praised the author's ability to delve into Kipling's motivations, his struggles with fame, and his often contradictory beliefs. These readers found the book to be a compelling glimpse into the life of a multifaceted literary figure and appreciated Wilson's skilled storytelling.

However, some reviewers felt that "The Strange Ride of Rudyard Kipling" lacked depth and had a slow pace. They believed that Wilson's exploration of Kipling's character was not fully realized and that the book did not provide enough context regarding the historical and cultural events surrounding Kipling's life. These readers desired more substance and a stronger connection to Kipling's body of work.

Others criticized the book for its sympathetic portrayal of Kipling, noting that it failed to address the author's controversial views on imperialism and race. They felt that Wilson downplayed the negative aspects of Kipling's character and failed to adequately critique his ideology. These readers expressed disappointment with the book's lack of nuance and its failure to delve into the complexities of Kipling's legacy.

Despite these criticisms, many readers still found "The Strange Ride of Rudyard Kipling" to be an engaging and informative read. They appreciated Wilson's vivid descriptions and his ability to bring the historical setting to life. Overall, the book received a range of reviews, with some applauding its insights into Kipling's character, and others wishing for a more comprehensive exploration of his life and works.

StrangeRide RudyardKipling BookRecommendation