"New Grub Street" is a novel by George Gissing, first published in 1891. The novel is set in the literary world of late 19th-century London and explores the challenges faced by aspiring writers and intellectuals. The title "New Grub Street" refers to a street in London where many publishers and literary agents were located at the time. The story revolves around several characters, including Edwin Reardon, a talented but struggling novelist; Jasper Milvain, a literary critic and opportunist; and Amy Reardon, Edwin's wife, who tries to support him despite their financial difficulties. The novel delves into themes such as the commercialization of literature, the pursuit of artistic integrity versus financial success, and the impact of societal pressures on individual aspirations. Gissing provides a critical commentary on the literary marketplace and the compromises that writers often face in their pursuit of success. The characters grapple with issues of poverty, class, and the changing landscape of the publishing industry, making "New Grub Street" a significant work of social realism. Overall, "New Grub Street" is celebrated for its insightful portrayal of the struggles of writers and intellectuals in a society driven by commercial interests, and it remains relevant for its exploration of the tensions between art and commerce in the literary world.
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