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33 pages 1 hour read

A Single Man: A Novel

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 1964

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Book Brief

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Christopher Isherwood

A Single Man

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 1964
Book Details
Pages

192

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Los Angeles, California • 1960s

Publication Year

1964

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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Super Short Summary

Set in Los Angeles in 1964, A Single Man by Christopher Isherwood follows George, a grieving gay college professor, through his last day. Struggling with the loss of his partner Jim, George navigates his interactions with neighbors, students, and friends, ending the day contemplating life's meaning and his future. Sensitive topics include grief, loss, and references to car accidents.

Melancholic

Contemplative

Emotional

Bittersweet

Hopeful

Reviews & Readership

4.1

36,173 ratings

76%

Loved it

18%

Mixed feelings

6%

Not a fan

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Review Roundup

Christopher Isherwood's A Single Man is widely praised for its poignant exploration of grief and identity. Critics highlight Isherwood’s elegant prose and deep character study, while some note a disjointed narrative flow. Overall, the novel’s emotional depth and introspective nature resonate powerfully, offering a profound literary experience despite occasional structural flaws.

Who should read this

Who Should Read A Single Man?

A reader who would enjoy A Single Man by Christopher Isherwood is likely drawn to introspective novels exploring identity, grief, and human connection. They would appreciate the emotional depth and narrative style similar to Virginia Woolf's Mrs. Dalloway and James Baldwin's Giovanni's Room.

4.1

36,173 ratings

76%

Loved it

18%

Mixed feelings

6%

Not a fan

Character List

George

A 58-year-old English teacher in Los Angeles in 1964, he is navigating life after the death of his partner, Jim. He is introspective, with a complex personality, and he frequently interacts with his friend Charlotte.

George’s deceased partner, who appears only through George’s memories and reflections. He was described as compassionate and brave, having served in World War II.

One of George’s students who brings out feelings of youthful joy and sexuality in him. He shows interest in George, which leads to a complex interaction between them.

George’s neighbor and friend, who invites him over to reminisce about their past lives. She is supportive but struggles with depression and loneliness.

A terminally ill woman in a hospital who provides a connection to George’s past with Jim. She is a reminder of the inevitability of death.

A minor character who embodies societal prejudice, she represents the challenges George faces due to his sexuality. She briefly interacts with George and her actions highlight mid-20th century attitudes towards gay individuals.

Book Details
Pages

192

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Los Angeles, California • 1960s

Publication Year

1964

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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