Hangover Square by Patrick Hamilton (Penguin Classics)

Description

“Hangover Square” is a novel written by British author Patrick Hamilton. The book was first published in 1941. Patrick Hamilton is known for his dark and atmospheric novels that often explore the lives of individuals on the margins of society.

“Hangover Square” is set in London during the 1930s and follows the story of George Harvey Bone, an alcoholic with psychological issues. The novel is a bleak and intense portrayal of Bone’s struggles with his mental health, relationships, and alcoholism. The title “Hangover Square” refers to a part of London, but it also metaphorically captures the lingering and oppressive atmosphere of Bone’s life.

The story is set against the backdrop of pre-World War II Europe, and Hamilton skillfully incorporates the political and social tensions of the time into the narrative. The novel is celebrated for its psychological depth, vivid characterizations, and the evocative depiction of the seedy and ominous atmosphere of London.

“Hangover Square” is considered a classic of 20th-century British literature and is praised for its exploration of alienation, madness, and the impact of external forces on the individual. If you enjoy dark and psychologically intense novels with a strong sense of time and place, “Hangover Square” might be of interest to you.