Confessions of an English Opium-Eater

Confessions of an English Opium-Eater is a searing account of the pleasure, pain, and mind-expanding powers of opium, part of the Macmillan Collectors Library. It is introduced by Dr Frances Wilson and follows Thomas De Quincey's journey from childhood to addiction.

Format: Hardback
Length: 128 pages
Publication date: 05 September 2019
Publisher: Pan Macmillan

Confessions of an English Opium-Eater, written by Thomas De Quincey, is a searing and unflinching portrayal of the pleasures, pains, and mind-altering powers of opium. Part of the Macmillan Collectors Library, a series of exquisite, clothbound, pocket-sized classics with gold-foiled edges and ribbon markers, these beautiful books make perfect gifts or a treat for any book lover. Introduced by biographer, critic, and academic Dr Frances Wilson, this edition offers a captivating glimpse into the life of Thomas De Quincey.

Born into a privileged upbringing, De Quincey's journey took an unexpected turn when he became homeless during his adolescence in Wales. It was during his nocturnal wanderings in London that he befriended prostitutes, immersing himself in a world of extreme euphoria and vivid nightmares. Despite his academic success at Oxford University, De Quincey's drug use eventually overtook him, leading him to drop out.

Confessions of an English Opium-Eater is widely regarded as the first published autobiography to delve into the allure and consequences of addiction. Through his candid and introspective narrative, De Quincey takes readers on a journey from his grammar school childhood to his homeless adolescence, from his encounters with prostitutes to his enrollment at Oxford University. His life story is both unpredictable and deeply personal, offering a unique perspective on the human condition.

De Quincey's writing is characterized by its vivid descriptions and emotional honesty, providing a raw and unvarnished account of his experiences with opium. He delves into the intricate details of his addiction, from the initial sensations of pleasure to the gradual descent into despair and addiction. His descriptions of the opium den and the opium-addled individuals who frequented it are particularly haunting, painting a vivid picture of the destructive power of drugs.

In addition to its exploration of addiction, Confessions of an English Opium-Eater also sheds light on the social and cultural context of the 19th century. De Quincey's experiences as a young man in London, where he encountered the poverty, prostitution, and drug abuse that were prevalent at the time, provide a window into the darker side of Victorian society. His observations on the effects of opium on individuals and society are thought-provoking and offer a valuable insight into the societal challenges of the time.

Overall, Confessions of an English Opium-Eater is a masterpiece of literature that continues to captivate readers with its raw, emotional, and thought-provoking narrative. It serves as a cautionary tale about the dangers of addiction and a testament to the human spirit's resilience in the face of adversity. Whether read for its literary merits or as a window into the past, this book is a must-read for anyone interested in the complexities of human behavior and the profound impact of drugs on society.

Weight: 170g
Dimension: 158 x 102 x 13 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781509899791