The Good Soldier

Ford Madox Ford

October 15, 1991

The Good Soldier by Ford Madox Ford is a triumph of modernist literature, an entrancing exploration of the seductive nature of lies, and a gripping story told through shifting perspectives and unreliable narrators. At its center is the Edwardian-era married couple, John and Leonora Ashburnham, who are supposedly the “good soldier” and his wife—but the truth is anything but.The novel is a meditation on the idea that appearances can be deceiving and that no matter how perfect someone seems to be, in their hearts and minds there could be something much darker. The story traces the unraveling of their seemingly ideal marriage as the narrator gradually reveals their infidelities and betrayals, and the devastating effects it has on those around them.Though written a century ago, due to its timeless themes, the novel still resonates with readers today. Ford Madox Ford shows how even a century ago, life contained within it the same mix of tragedy, deception, heartache and sorrow that it does today. Eventually, the characters are forced to face the consequences of the lies they tell, and the deep pain they unintentionally cause their loved ones. Through their journey, Ford Madox Ford poetically conveys the inherent beauty of life and its fragility, prompting readers to reflect and ponder the universal truths of life. The Good Soldier is a masterfully crafted novel that creates an impressive portrait of Edwardian British society, and continues to stand the test of time. It is an essential read for all English literature lovers, and is sure to captivate and enthrall readers from all walks of life.