Gargoyles

Name: Gargoyles
Author: Ben Hecht

By Ben Hecht

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American Literature Novels

About This Book

The narrative traces intersecting lives in an American city at the turn of the century, focusing on ambitious, morally compromised figures who oscillate between public aspiration and private vice. A young man newly emerged from a house of ill repute pursues political advancement while friends and relatives grapple with desire, guilt, and nostalgic longings for purity. Episodic scenes balance satire and pathos as romance, temptation, and social hypocrisy reveal characters’ conflicting impulses, producing vivid character portraits that critique urban manners and the costs of personal and social pretension.

About the Author

Ben Hecht

Ben Hecht was an influential American screenwriter, playwright, and novelist, known for his sharp wit and innovative storytelling. His works often reflect the vibrant culture of early 20th-century America, particularly in Chicago, where he spent much of his life. Hecht's notable titles include "A Thousand and One Afternoons in Chicago," a collection of essays that capture the essence of the city, and "Fantazius Mallare: A Mysterious Oath," which showcases his flair for the fantastical. Throughout his career, Hecht contributed significantly to both literature and film, leaving a lasting impact on the narrative style of his time.