The Confidential Clerk
The Confidential Clerk
Book Brief
Beta128
Poem • Fiction
London, England • 1950s
1975
Adult
18+ years
Super Short Summary
The Confidential Clerk is a play by T.S. Eliot that explores themes of identity and self-discovery. It follows a young man employed as a clerk, uncovering personal secrets and familial connections amidst a backdrop of complex relationships. The narrative delves into existential questions and the search for belonging in a seemingly rigid societal structure.
Contemplative
Mysterious
Emotional
Melancholic
Unnerving
Reviews & Readership
182 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Review Roundup
The Confidential Clerk by T.S. Eliot is praised for its witty dialogue and exploration of identity, featuring complex characters and intricate relationships. However, some critics find its philosophical depth at times overshadows narrative clarity. While admired by enthusiasts of thoughtful theater, it may challenge those seeking straightforward storytelling.
Who Should Read The Confidential Clerk?
A reader who enjoys The Confidential Clerk by T.S. Eliot likely appreciates modernist literature and poetic drama. They might also enjoy books like No Exit by Jean-Paul Sartre and Waiting for Godot by Samuel Beckett, which delve into existential themes and character introspection.
182 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
The Confidential Clerk was one of Eliot's later works, premiering in 1953, and it reflects his interest in the classical elements of drama, particularly through its exploration of identity and family secrets.
T.S. Eliot's work on The Confidential Clerk was partly influenced by his own experience in the banking world, as he worked for Lloyds Bank before fully dedicating himself to writing.
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The play was originally performed at the prestigious Edinburgh Festival before moving to London's West End, showcasing Eliot's continued impact on the theatrical world in the post-war era.
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128
Poem • Fiction
London, England • 1950s
1975
Adult
18+ years
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