Ronald Firbank 
Sorrow in Sunlight 

In Ronald Firbank’s ‘Sorrow in Sunlight’, readers are transported into a dazzling world of satire and social commentary. The book is an exquisite example of Firbank’s unique literary style, characterized by his use of wit and humor to dissect the absurdities of society. Set against the backdrop of a glamorous Mediterranean resort, the novel explores the lives of a group of eccentric characters whose frivolous pursuits and hidden desires are brought to light. Firbank’s playful language and unconventional narrative structure make ‘Sorrow in Sunlight’ a captivating and thought-provoking read, offering readers a glimpse into the ridiculousness of the upper class society. The book is a prime example of Firbank’s contribution to modernist literature, showcasing his innovative approach to storytelling and his keen eye for social commentary. Fans of satire and wit will find ‘Sorrow in Sunlight’ a delightful and engaging read, providing a fresh perspective on the complexities of human nature and social conventions.

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Ronald Firbank (1886-1926) was an English novelist known for his distinctive, idiosyncratic literary style, characterized by its economy, wit, and a flair for high comedy. Born in London, Firbank was an aesthete, influenced deeply by the aesthetic movement and the works of Oscar Wilde. Firbank’s narrative style often eschewed conventional plot and character development in favor of dialogue and social satire. He was a master of nuanced conversation, employing an economy of language that was both decorative and precise, which made his work profoundly distinctive in the modernist literary landscape. ‘Sorrow in Sunlight’ (also published as ‘Prancing Nigger’), one of his notable works, showcases his talent for witty and satirical depiction of high society. Firbank’s prose is marked by a unique rhythm, sometimes characterized as being musical in nature, reflecting his fascination with the sounds of words and the rhythm of speech. Despite his influence on other writers—Evelyn Waugh and W.H. Auden among them—Firbank’s works have often lingered on the fringes of English literature, celebrated by a devoted coterie but overlooked in broader literary discourse. His novels, including the celebrated ‘Valmouth’ and ‘The Flower Beneath the Foot’, remain fascinating reads for their stylistic experimentation and their subtle undermining of contemporary mores. Firbank, whose career was marred by poor health, died young but left behind a uniquely flamboyant and original body of work.