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Cover of The Desired Woman

The Desired Woman

Written by Will N. (Will Nathaniel) Harben

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Man-woman relationshipsTeachersGeorgiaBankers

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About this book

"The Desired Woman" by Will N. Harben is a novel likely written during the late 19th century. The narrative unfolds in the bustling atmosphere of Atlanta, offering a glimpse into the lives of its characters primarily set within and around a local bank, where business dealings and personal relationships intertwine. The opening of the book introduces us to Jarvis Saunders and his partner, Dick Mostyn, who are embroiled in the pressures of the banking world. Mostyn appears to be suffering from the intense stress related to recent business dealings, hinting at his personal struggles. As Saunders navigates workplace dynamics and external pressures, such as an irate client with claims against Mostyn, we begin to witness the tension and challenges the characters face. Additionally, Mostyn's longing for a simpler life is foreshadowed as he contemplates a much-needed retreat to the mountains to escape the confines of his business obligations. The opening chapters set the stage for the complex interplay of ambition, social relationships, and romantic aspirations that will likely unfold throughout the novel.

Reading guide

Themes, characters and key ideas in The Desired Woman, written by Chaptra AI.

  • about 10 hours
  • intermediate
  • dramatic
  • tense
  • ambitious

Set in late 19th-century Atlanta, "The Desired Woman" delves into the intense world of banking and its impact on personal lives. The narrative centers on partners Jarvis Saunders and Dick Mostyn, the latter burdened by severe business stress and a longing for a simpler existence. As Saunders navigates professional challenges, including an irate client's claims against Mostyn, the novel explores the intricate interplay of ambition, financial pressures, social relationships, and burgeoning romantic aspirations. The opening chapters establish a tense atmosphere, foreshadowing a complex journey of personal and professional dilemmas for its characters.

Key themes

The Pressures of Modern Business and Finance
The novel explicitly sets its narrative in the 'bustling atmosphere' of a bank, immediately highlighting the intense demands and ethical challenges inherent in the financial world of the late 19th century. Mostyn's stress and the irate client's claims exemplify the high stakes and potential for ruin in business dealings.
The Pursuit of Happiness and Escape
Mostyn's longing for a 'simpler life' and his contemplation of a retreat to the mountains serve as a central exploration of the desire to escape societal pressures and find personal contentment. This theme contrasts the demands of urban ambition with the ideal of pastoral tranquility.
Social Relationships and Ambition
The novel's opening chapters explicitly state that the story will unfold the 'complex interplay of ambition, social relationships.' This suggests an exploration of how individuals navigate their social circles, build alliances, and pursue their goals within the established hierarchies and expectations of late 19th-century society.

Worth discussing

How do the pressures of the banking world in the late 19th century compare to modern financial stresses?

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