Martin Eden

Summary

«Martin Eden» is a novel by American author Jack London, first published in 1909. The story revolves around the protagonist, Martin Eden, a simple sailor from the lower classes, who aspires to self-education and a literary career in hopes of winning the heart of a highly educated bourgeois girl named Ruth. The novel touches on themes such as love, class differences, individual development, the struggle for recognition in the creative field, and a critique of capitalist society. Martin falls in love with Ruth and begins to work intensely on himself, reading classic works and learning the craft of writing. He faces countless rejections from publishers but does not give up on his dream. When success finally arrives, he finds that fame and wealth do not bring him satisfaction and do not change his sense of alienation from society and its values. Ultimately, disillusioned and destitute, Martin makes the fatal decision to leave this world, finding no meaning in a life deemed successful by society. The novel is partially autobiographical and reflects London's personal experiences and views on life, love, and society.