The History of Mr Polly

The History of Mr Polly cover
Good Books rating 3.67
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Technical
  • ID: 10444
  • Added: 2026-01-25
  • Updated: 2026-01-25
  • ISBN: 9791041805174
  • Publisher: BoD - Books on Demand
  • Published: 2023-04-04
  • Reviews: 3

The History of Mr. Polly by H. G. Wells is a poignant exploration of a man's struggle with dissatisfaction and the search for meaning. Alfred Polly, a man plagued by both physical and metaphorical indigestion, reflects on his life while sitting on a stile, discontent with his surroundings, job, and marriage. The narrative delves into his past, revealing his childhood, education, and early career in a drapery shop, where he finds solace in the camaraderie of his fellow apprentices. However, as isolation and disillusionment set in, Mr. Polly's journey becomes a reflection on the human condition and the quest for happiness. Through vivid descriptions and a deep understanding of human nature, Wells crafts a narrative that resonates with readers. Mr. Polly's story is marked by moments of rebellion, introspection, and a struggle to break free from societal expectations. As he navigates the challenges of adulthood, his journey invites readers to ponder their own lives and aspirations, making this a timeless exploration of the search for fulfillment.

Reviews
Books & Boots · 2024-12-23
brilliant 4.50

This comic novel is full of brilliantly observed details and shrewd psychology, making it hugely enjoyable.

The reviewer describes 'The History of Mr Polly' as a hugely enjoyable comic novel, highlighting its brilliantly observed details and shrewd psychology. They particularly appreciate the novel's comic reversals and its ability to engage readers with its humorous and insightful portrayal of its characters. The reviewer suggests that this novel is one of Wells's best social comedies, offering a unique and entertaining perspective on the human condition.


Quick quotes

    This is a hugely enjoyable comic novel, by far the best of Wells's social comedies, full of brilliantly observed details, shrewd psychology and comic reversals.

    Full of brilliantly observed details, shrewd psychology and comic reversals.

    A hugely enjoyable comic novel, by far the best of Wells's social comedies.

Reading 1900-1950 · 2020-02-14
poor 2.50

The treatment of women characters is dreadful, with none being treated sympathetically.

The reviewer criticizes Wells's treatment of women characters in 'The History of Mr Polly', describing it as dreadful and unsympathetic. They highlight that none of the female characters are portrayed in a positive light, which detracts from the overall enjoyment of the novel. Despite this criticism, the reviewer acknowledges the novel's humorous and provocative reflections on work, marriage, and other aspects of life.


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    I found Wells' treatment of his women characters dreadful. There isn't one that is treated in a sympathetic way.

    His aunt is silly, his eldest sister is a spinster, and his wife is a nag.

    Wells' treatment of his women characters is dreadful, with none being treated sympathetically.

The Guardian · Robert McCrum · 2014-06-16
great 4.00

The novel stands out for its ironic portrait of a man similar to Wells himself. It is a great choice among many.

Robert McCrum highlights that 'The History of Mr Polly' is a standout novel in Wells's collection, particularly for its ironic and self-reflective portrayal of a character much like Wells himself. He praises the novel's unique perspective and its ability to captivate readers with its humorous and thought-provoking narrative. McCrum's review suggests that this novel is a must-read for those interested in Wells's work, as it offers a fresh and engaging take on the author's signature themes.


Quick quotes

    Wells's ironic portrait of a man very like himself is the novel that stands out.

    The choice is great, but Wells's ironic portrait of a man very like himself is the novel that stands out.

    Robet McCrum introduces the series.