Skip to main content
Chaptra
Cover of When Ghost Meets Ghost

When Ghost Meets Ghost

Written by William De Morgan

Not rated yet — tap a star to review it
Twins

Chaptra reads alongside you — AI insights, chapter breakdowns and reader discussions for every book. Join free

About this book

"When Ghost Meets Ghost" by William De Morgan is a novel likely written in the early 20th century. The story revolves around a cast of characters living in a quaint London court as they navigate the complexities of life, love, and the supernatural, infused with humor and commentary on societal norms of the time. Key figures include siblings Dave and Dolly Wardle, who are raised by their quirky Uncle Moses and Aunt M'riar, setting the stage for a narrative rich in character studies and whimsical events. The opening of the novel introduces readers to Sapps Court, a quaint yet faded location in London, where the youthful Dave and his sister Dolly live with their unconventional family. The story begins with a humorous exploration of the court's physical characteristics and the everyday lives of its residents, particularly highlighting the imaginative antics of the children. As the narrative unfolds, we learn about their relationship with their Uncle Moses, his amusingly eccentric past as a prizefighter, and the small challenges and adventures of growing up in a tight-knit community. The tone captures a blend of nostalgia and warmth, promising an engaging exploration of both the mundane and the mystical.

Reading guide

Themes, characters and key ideas in When Ghost Meets Ghost, written by Chaptra AI.

  • about 12 hours
  • intermediate
  • humorous
  • whimsical
  • nostalgic

William De Morgan's "When Ghost Meets Ghost" is a charming early 20th-century novel set in the picturesque Sapps Court, London, where the youthful Dave and Dolly Wardle navigate childhood under the eccentric guardianship of Uncle Moses and Aunt M'riar. The narrative skillfully blends the mundane realities of their tight-knit community with whimsical, often humorous, events that touch upon the supernatural and the complexities of human relationships. As a past secret resurfaces, challenging perceptions of identity and reality, the story evolves into a delightful exploration of love, memory, and the enduring echoes of the past. De Morgan infuses the tale with a nostalgic warmth, rich character studies, and subtle commentary on Edwardian societal norms, making for an engaging and reflective reading experience.

“It is a curious thing, this business of memory; it plays tricks with us, painting over the past with hues it never quite possessed.”

Key themes

Memory and the Past
This theme is central, explored through the 'ghosts' of the title, which are often metaphorical representations of past events, identities, or relationships that continue to influence the present. The novel examines how memory can be unreliable, how secrets are kept, and how confronting the past is essential for present understanding and peace.
Identity and Self-Discovery
The novel explores how characters define themselves, both through their personal history and their interactions within the community. Mistaken identities and the revelation of true parentage or past lives force characters to re-evaluate who they are and who others perceive them to be. The children, Dave and Dolly, undergo a journey of self-discovery as they learn about the complexities of adulthood.
Community and Societal Norms
Sapps Court functions as a microcosm of early 20th-century London society, highlighting the intricate relationships, gossip, support systems, and unspoken rules that govern a tight-knit community. De Morgan subtly comments on class distinctions, gender roles, and the expectations placed upon individuals, often through the humorous clash between eccentric personalities and conventional attitudes.

Worth discussing

How does De Morgan use the 'supernatural' element in the title, and what are the various interpretations of 'ghosts' within the novel?

Chapter-by-chapter breakdowns, character arcs and the full thematic analysis come with a free account.

Sign up freeLog in

Discussions

No one has started one yet

Join

Questions this book opens up

No discussions yet

Be the first to start a discussion about this book!

Sign up to start the discussion

Reviews

No reviews yet

Be the first to review this book!