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This is the summary of a novel called "The Man Who Went to Work" by Alan Sillitoe. Tom, a young journalist, investigates the mysterious life of a lonely local recluse, an eccentric man who has died through self-neglect. His journey takes him from rural East Anglia to the old fading industrial heartland of the West Riding of Yorkshire, and on to London. He meets a contingent of people who have all attended the funeral of the dead man, with no apparent reason. Tom learns about the industrial strife, the Iranian Revolution, the British victory of the Falklands war, and the industrial work environments of the 1970s. He also learns about the individuals and begins to understand the fateful event that brought them all together. He sees men's flaws and virtues, finds love, and works out his own path in life.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 211 pages
Publication date: 23 April 2021
Publisher: Peter Llidon Publishing

A young, determined, and aspiring journalist embarks on a captivating journey to uncover the enigmatic life of a solitary local recluse, an eccentric man who has tragically succumbed to self-neglect. Tom's expedition takes him from the picturesque rural landscapes of East Anglia to the decaying industrial heartlands of the West Riding of Yorkshire, and eventually to the bustling streets of London. Along the way, he encounters a diverse group of individuals who share a peculiar connection—they all attended the funeral of the deceased man, seemingly without any apparent reason.

As Tom delves deeper into his investigation, he uncovers a tapestry of historical events that shaped Britain during the 1970s, including the tumultuous industrial strife, the Iranian Revolution's profound impact on two of the people he encounters, the triumphant British victory in the Falklands War, and the backdrop of industrial work environments. Through his interactions with these individuals, Tom gains a deeper understanding of their unique personalities and begins to unravel the tragic event that brought them together.

As he observes the complexities of human nature, Tom witnesses both the flaws and the virtues of the people he meets. He experiences the joys of love and the challenges of finding his own path in life. Through his reporting, Tom sheds light on the complexities of human relationships and the profound impact of historical events on individuals and communities.

In conclusion, Tom's journey is a testament to the power of journalism and the human spirit's resilience in the face of adversity. His determination to uncover the truth leads him to explore the depths of human emotions, the complexities of history, and the beauty of human connections. Through his reporting, Tom not only sheds light on the mysterious life of the lonely recluse but also provides a profound reflection on the human experience and the enduring impact of historical events.

Weight: 430g
Dimension: 155 x 223 x 24 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781838392901