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Tommy: A Tale of Resilience and Determination in 19th Century England
In "Tommy," Joseph Hocking presents a compelling narrative that intertwines themes of social justice, personal redemption, and the struggles of the working class during the early 20th century. The novel is characterized by Hocking's vivid and emotive literary style, reflecting the tumultuous social landscape of post-Victorian England. His deft characterizations and poignant dialogue invite readers into the life of the titular character, Tommy, as he grapples with adversity in a world marked by inequality and moral ambiguity. Hocking's keen observations offer a critique of societal norms while celebrating the resilience of the human spirit, making it a significant contribution to the social realist movement of his time. Joseph Hocking, a prolific author and playwright, was deeply influenced by his experiences as a Methodist minister and his observations of the socio-economic conditions faced by the lower classes. His commitment to social reform and his engagement with contemporary issues are evident in his work, shaping not just the themes but also the narrative style of "Tommy." Hocking's blend of personal conviction and artistic expression reflects his desire to illuminate the struggles of those he wrote about, resonating with readers seeking authenticity in literature. Readers seeking a heartfelt exploration of resilience amidst societal challenges will find "Tommy" to be an indispensable read. Hocking'Äôs ability to weave compelling narratives with essential social commentary makes this novel not only an engaging story but also a vital reflection of the human condition. This book is particularly recommended for those interested in literary explorations of class struggles and moral dilemmas, offering both a mirror and a window into the lives of those who dare to hope for a better future.
83 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 1, 1916
About the author
Joseph Hocking
109 books4 followersFrom Wikipedia:
Joseph Hocking was a Cornish novelist and United Methodist Free Church minister. He was born at St Stephen-in-Brannel, Cornwall, to James Hocking, part owner of a tin mine, and his wife Elizabeth.
In 1884, he was ordained as a minister. Working in different parts of England over the next few years, he wrote his first novel, Harry Penhale - The Trial of his Faith, while in London in 1887. He regarded fiction as a highly effective medium for conveying his Christian message to the public, and combined his writing with his church duties, until ill health forced him to resign from the ministry in 1909. His last pastoral charge was the large and important United Free Church at Woodford Essex, which he was instrumental in having rebuilt by the advanced arts and crafts architect, Charles Harrison Townsend.
On his recovery, he found himself a much sought-after preacher across Britain, and he travelled extensively in the Middle East.
He continued to write, and over the course of his career, he was the author of nearly 100 books. Although largely forgotten now, he was tremendously popular in his day.
He died in St Ives, Cornwall, and was survived by his wife, Annie, who he had married in 1887, and four daughters, three of whom become published novelists in their own right (Anne Hocking, Elizabeth Nisot and Joan Shill). A son, Cuthert, was killed in World War I.
Through his mother he was related to the biblical scholar John Kitto. His brother was Silas Hocking (1850–1935), also a novelist and Methodist minister, and his sister, Salome (1859–1927), was also a novelist.
Hocking features as one of the main characters in the 2009 play Surfing Tommies by Cornish playwright, Alan M. Kent.
Joseph Hocking's ashes were buried in the churchyard of St Stephen-in-Brannel.
Joseph Hocking was a Cornish novelist and United Methodist Free Church minister. He was born at St Stephen-in-Brannel, Cornwall, to James Hocking, part owner of a tin mine, and his wife Elizabeth.
In 1884, he was ordained as a minister. Working in different parts of England over the next few years, he wrote his first novel, Harry Penhale - The Trial of his Faith, while in London in 1887. He regarded fiction as a highly effective medium for conveying his Christian message to the public, and combined his writing with his church duties, until ill health forced him to resign from the ministry in 1909. His last pastoral charge was the large and important United Free Church at Woodford Essex, which he was instrumental in having rebuilt by the advanced arts and crafts architect, Charles Harrison Townsend.
On his recovery, he found himself a much sought-after preacher across Britain, and he travelled extensively in the Middle East.
He continued to write, and over the course of his career, he was the author of nearly 100 books. Although largely forgotten now, he was tremendously popular in his day.
He died in St Ives, Cornwall, and was survived by his wife, Annie, who he had married in 1887, and four daughters, three of whom become published novelists in their own right (Anne Hocking, Elizabeth Nisot and Joan Shill). A son, Cuthert, was killed in World War I.
Through his mother he was related to the biblical scholar John Kitto. His brother was Silas Hocking (1850–1935), also a novelist and Methodist minister, and his sister, Salome (1859–1927), was also a novelist.
Hocking features as one of the main characters in the 2009 play Surfing Tommies by Cornish playwright, Alan M. Kent.
Joseph Hocking's ashes were buried in the churchyard of St Stephen-in-Brannel.
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Displaying 1 - 1 of 1 review
August 4, 2019
Lovely story.
I love Joseph Hocking's books, I have read most of them. This book, whilst not my favourite, I enjoyed very much. It's a well written story about a boy called Tommy who becomes a 'Tommy'. The story is about his life, thoughts and behaviour before the war and his exploits in the war. An enjoyable read.
I love Joseph Hocking's books, I have read most of them. This book, whilst not my favourite, I enjoyed very much. It's a well written story about a boy called Tommy who becomes a 'Tommy'. The story is about his life, thoughts and behaviour before the war and his exploits in the war. An enjoyable read.
Displaying 1 - 1 of 1 review