Under the Net

Under the Net, Iris Murdoch's first novel, is a clever blend of comedy and philosophy set in postwar London. It follows Jake Donaghue, a clever but lazy hack translator and aspiring writer, as he navigates a tangled web of love, friendship, and artistic ambition. The novel captures the exuberant spirit of freedom in postwar Europe while exploring the complexities of human relationships and the elusive nature of truth. Jake's misadventures involve a cast of vivid characters including Anna, a folk singer; Sadie, a glamorous film star; Hugo, a philosopher turned movie producer; and Marvellous Mister Mars, a famous dog. Through a series of comic and unexpected events—such as house-sitting, stolen manuscripts, and bets—Jake is forced to confront the limits of his own perceptions and begins to engage more deeply with the world around him. Murdoch’s novel is celebrated for its wit, intelligence, and fearless exploration of philosophical ideas within a richly entertaining narrative.