Super Short Summary

In Joseph Conrad: A Critical Biography by Jocelyn Baines, the author meticulously examines the life and works of Polish-British novelist Joseph Conrad, emphasizing his formative years, complex psychological themes, and narrative realism in his writing. Baines navigates the intertwining of fact and fiction in Conrad's autobiographical works, corrects misconceptions, and presents new evidence about Conrad's turbulent childhood, maritime career, and literary achievements, culminating in a comprehensive, though nuanced, portrait of his life and legacy. The book discusses themes of childhood trauma and suicidal thoughts.