What do you think?
Rate this book
Jack the Ripper: The Works of Francis Thompson
Francis Thompson in 1888.
He was an ex-medical student with a dissecting scalpel, and a history of mental illness and trouble with the police. He had just broken up with a prostitute and had written about cutting women's stomachs open.
At the same time, a few yards from his refuge, a woman was knifed, as part of a spate of prostitute murders, which one coroner said was by someone who had considerable anatomical skill and knowledge.
Richard A. Patterson sets out a compelling case for English poet Francis Thompson as the prime suspect for Jack the Ripper in this must-read for Ripperologists the world over.
He was an ex-medical student with a dissecting scalpel, and a history of mental illness and trouble with the police. He had just broken up with a prostitute and had written about cutting women's stomachs open.
At the same time, a few yards from his refuge, a woman was knifed, as part of a spate of prostitute murders, which one coroner said was by someone who had considerable anatomical skill and knowledge.
Richard A. Patterson sets out a compelling case for English poet Francis Thompson as the prime suspect for Jack the Ripper in this must-read for Ripperologists the world over.
- GenresTrue CrimeNonfiction
279 pages, Kindle Edition
Published March 4, 2017
7 people are currently reading
124 people want to read
About the author
Richard Patterson
63 books4 followersRichard Patterson is Professor of Philosophy at Emory University.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 20 of 20 reviews
September 21, 2017
In Jack the Ripper, The Works of Francis Thompson, Richard Patterson, writes about the notorious serial killer, Jack the Ripper (The Ripper). The Ripper is the subject of many books. However, this author and Joseph C. Rupp, the forensic pathologist who wrote the Forward, believe Francis Thompson, a posthumous, genius and renowned poet is actually The Ripper. Richard Patterson thoroughly explains his allegations.
In 1888, the Ripper tips off the police in poetic letters. He methodically killed five women—prostitutes from penniless backgrounds—using a sharp knife effortlessly like someone familiar with the human anatomy. He withdraws into the night becoming an unknown, worldwide celebrity. When people are panic-stricken, Francis Joseph Thompson (Francis) makes his writing debut. This poet passionately uses Biblical verses, and many of his poems are bloody and about prostitutes.
By paralleling the Ripper’s actions with Francis’ life, you find: a Catholic man with a painful childhood who attended medical school for six years, hated women, kept company with prostitutes, was addicted to drugs, and tasted homelessness.
Patterson compares the mind and actions of several serial killers to Francis’ personality. It is very clear that serial killers do not stand out in society, and, if Francis were on trial today, the Ripper’s identity would probably have a face.
Jack the Ripper, The Works of Francis Thompson, is a 404 page, well-written, documentary-toned page turner.
Reviewed by Vivian Dixon Sober
In 1888, the Ripper tips off the police in poetic letters. He methodically killed five women—prostitutes from penniless backgrounds—using a sharp knife effortlessly like someone familiar with the human anatomy. He withdraws into the night becoming an unknown, worldwide celebrity. When people are panic-stricken, Francis Joseph Thompson (Francis) makes his writing debut. This poet passionately uses Biblical verses, and many of his poems are bloody and about prostitutes.
By paralleling the Ripper’s actions with Francis’ life, you find: a Catholic man with a painful childhood who attended medical school for six years, hated women, kept company with prostitutes, was addicted to drugs, and tasted homelessness.
Patterson compares the mind and actions of several serial killers to Francis’ personality. It is very clear that serial killers do not stand out in society, and, if Francis were on trial today, the Ripper’s identity would probably have a face.
Jack the Ripper, The Works of Francis Thompson, is a 404 page, well-written, documentary-toned page turner.
Reviewed by Vivian Dixon Sober
May 4, 2017
Whitechapel in London has become infamous due to the gruesome series of murders which took place there in 1888, carried out by one individual now widely known as Jack the Ripper. In the search for the identity of this killer the theory of Richard Patterson that renowned and respected English poet Francis Thompson was the Ripper is, initially, a surprising one but keep reading because this is a theory which holds a great deal of weight.
Patterson, through extensive research spanning the last 20 years can not only place Francis Thompson at the scene of the murders but he can prove he had the ability and the motive to carry them out. A fascinating insight into Francis Thompson himself, his vagrant years and drug addiction is covered in detail and the parallels that can be drawn between Thompson and the Ripper are striking. Thompson's own words in his poetry are explored showcasing his dark thoughts repeated references and descriptions of brutal murder mirroring the reality of the five murders the Ripper carried out.
An excellent read providing a viable and convincing argument for the identity of the most feared serial killer of the Victorian era, this book is a must read for anyone with an interest in this intriguing case.
Read my full review of
Jack the Ripper: The Works of Francis Thompson on Crime Traveller at: https://www.crimetraveller.org/2017/0...
October 6, 2017
When the author approached me to review this title, the timing was interesting as I was in the process of writing a new story of my own that touches upon the Ripper murders. Therefore, with a bit of serendipity at play, I agreed to read this book. I have to say that Patterson's arguments in favour of Thompson as the Ripper are compelling--more so than some of the other names put forward over the years. The study is clearly well researched, and on the whole it was a gripping read. There were a few times when I wished Patterson would stop pressing home the same points again and again--I remembered them well enough from the last chapter--but that is a minor complaint. On the whole this is a work that will appeal to true-crime readers and Ripperologists. Was Thompson the Ripper? I guess the killer's identity will be hard to prove absolutely after the passing of so many years, but Patterson certainly makes an interesting case.
I received this book as a free review copy from the author.
I received this book as a free review copy from the author.
April 30, 2017
Susie An interesting and thought provoking read. Richard's many years of researching Francis Thompson shows clearly though out book I highly recommend it crime readers and none to crime readers.
May 3, 2017
I have read many books on Jack the Ripper over the years, by various authors all with different suspects. I must say I have been impressed with nearly all of them and congratulate the authors on doing so much research into their chosen suspect. When I was first told about this book naming a Poet as a suspect I admit I was a bit bewildered, but thought I would give it a go as I am hopelessly addicted to this genre!! Well I am glad I did. This book is incredibly researched and well written. I honestly think the author has nailed it with this suspect. Everything fits in with the facts of the case. The author places the suspect right at the scene of the crimes when they were committed. Criminal profiles done on the Ripper fit exactly with this suspect. The author also lists an incredible range of coincidences which are far too much to deny. As a well read Ripper reader I would thoroughly recommend anyone interested in Jack The Ripper to buy this book. I guarantee you will not be disappointed
October 16, 2017
Was he, or wasn’t he?
Francis Thompson was a renowned poet and essayist who lived in the Whitechapel area during the most infamous series of murders in the 19th Century. This book explores the possibility that Thompson was really Jack the Ripper.
The book is very well researched and the author has taken a long time moulding these facts into a very plausible theory. The evidence does seem to point to Mr Thompson but then again so does every other Ripper book you read. In this case, if the police evidence was ever re-examined it would be interesting to see the outcome.
My only problem I have with this story is it is FAR too long and the author continuously repeats himself almost as if he is trying to convince you and himself that Thompson was guilty. With a little bit of editing, this would be a very good book if you are a Ripper fan (which I am).
There were a couple of errors I picked up; one of which is that King James I was not beheaded during the English Civil War, it was King Charles I.
One of the more convincing Ripper theories has read but not the best written. Worth reading though if you love Jack the Ripper.
Shesat
Breakaway Reviewers received a copy of the book to review.
Francis Thompson was a renowned poet and essayist who lived in the Whitechapel area during the most infamous series of murders in the 19th Century. This book explores the possibility that Thompson was really Jack the Ripper.
The book is very well researched and the author has taken a long time moulding these facts into a very plausible theory. The evidence does seem to point to Mr Thompson but then again so does every other Ripper book you read. In this case, if the police evidence was ever re-examined it would be interesting to see the outcome.
My only problem I have with this story is it is FAR too long and the author continuously repeats himself almost as if he is trying to convince you and himself that Thompson was guilty. With a little bit of editing, this would be a very good book if you are a Ripper fan (which I am).
There were a couple of errors I picked up; one of which is that King James I was not beheaded during the English Civil War, it was King Charles I.
One of the more convincing Ripper theories has read but not the best written. Worth reading though if you love Jack the Ripper.
Shesat
Breakaway Reviewers received a copy of the book to review.
November 4, 2017
Richard A. Patterson illuminates the nebulous and dreary alleyways of Victorian London with a neon light, highlighting all the strange "coincidences" that Thompson and Jack the Ripper share. It does so by reconstructing the poet's life through all possible documentation, analyzing his works and private postcards with his publishers. He does not leave anything heir. It follows the religious and the medical track. Try to track every single move. It compares newspapers and testimonies of the Whitechapel murders case with the description of the suspect. What is derived is a shadow of what may have happened in those 10 weeks of 1888 and how and why everything has been so mysteriously interrupted. A story of Poetry and Madness.
August 3, 2017
This thoroughly researched, intricate and immensely captivating book unravels the mystery of Jack the Ripper. The writing is truly immersive while simultaneously presents compelling evidence of Francis Thompson's guilt. The years of work put into this by Richard Patterson are clear and have resulted in the compilation of a wonderful book for those passionate about the Jack the Ripper murders as well as those who are simply interested in reading a piece of work that is beautifully written and well argued.
May 1, 2017
Very good read a lot of good information a must read if you are a jack fan and if not you still should read this there are a lot of ripper books about but this one is one of the best ones I have read in a long time
September 1, 2017
Serial killers continue to haunt the collective minds of society, as is apparent by the number and popularity of criminal-focused T.V. shows on the air today. What pushes a man—or woman—to the brink of sanity and causes them to kill others? The jury may still be out on just what causes such feelings and spurs violence in this manner, but one thing is certain: by learning more about the human mind, and our own selves, we can better understand—and more importantly, hypothesize a solution for—continued killings. If we can comprehend what factors lead to this mania, appropriate countermeasures can be put in place to prevent further catastrophes.
Jack the Ripper, the moniker attached to five brutal murders during the late 1800s, has earned his place among other famous serial killers in the pages of history. In his new book, Jack the Ripper: The Works of Francis Thompson, Richard Patterson delves deep into the annals of history to unearth the truth about Francis Thompson—and what dastardly and not-so-distant connection he may have to the Ripper himself.
Patterson presents a stunning case of connections, facts, and irrefutable conclusions. In a time before forensics and many of the scientific measures that have proved invaluable in more recent cases, seemingly coincidental happenstances and supportable knowledge comprise the only reliable information available. Patterson does a fantastic job of gathering the evidence and presenting it in a logical manner. By the end of the first few chapters, his case is strong. Thompson’s guilt only builds as Patterson continues to lay out the facts.
Readers will soon find themselves agreeing with Patterson’s conclusion that Francis Thompson is, if not Jack the Ripper himself, a very strong candidate. Thompson had the medical knowledge required to perform the intricate and detailed procedures upon the victims, as he was a voracious reader and attended medical schooling for quite some time. Clues to events regarding the murders can be found among his writings. In an opium-induced haze, Thompson could potentially be capable of any number of things. He was living in the area at the time of the murders. And if reports are to be believed, Thompson, spurned by his lady-of-the-night lover, would have had a motive for the killings.
Patterson skillfully magnifies and expounds upon the life of Francis Thompson, so much so that readers, for all that Thompson may or may not have done, cannot help but sympathize. Thompson was an accomplished writer, albeit one under the influence of drugs. His poems and writings are somewhat disturbing at times, but the incredible descriptions and tangible feelings infused in each work evokes a sense of respect. For all his faults, Thompson had talent. It is heartbreaking to know that he wasted away in the streets, rather than live well.
I strongly recommend Jack the Ripper: The Works of Francis Thompson for any reader. Obviously, the subject requires a certain maturity, but even readers who don’t usually delve into historical or non-fiction works will be entertained. The prose is easy to follow, and no prior knowledge of Jack the Ripper is necessary. Patterson presents his case well, and follows a logical process in order to relay the facts and draw connections. The next time you’re craving a taste of the fanatical, pick up Richard Patterson’s Jack the Ripper!
Jack the Ripper, the moniker attached to five brutal murders during the late 1800s, has earned his place among other famous serial killers in the pages of history. In his new book, Jack the Ripper: The Works of Francis Thompson, Richard Patterson delves deep into the annals of history to unearth the truth about Francis Thompson—and what dastardly and not-so-distant connection he may have to the Ripper himself.
Patterson presents a stunning case of connections, facts, and irrefutable conclusions. In a time before forensics and many of the scientific measures that have proved invaluable in more recent cases, seemingly coincidental happenstances and supportable knowledge comprise the only reliable information available. Patterson does a fantastic job of gathering the evidence and presenting it in a logical manner. By the end of the first few chapters, his case is strong. Thompson’s guilt only builds as Patterson continues to lay out the facts.
Readers will soon find themselves agreeing with Patterson’s conclusion that Francis Thompson is, if not Jack the Ripper himself, a very strong candidate. Thompson had the medical knowledge required to perform the intricate and detailed procedures upon the victims, as he was a voracious reader and attended medical schooling for quite some time. Clues to events regarding the murders can be found among his writings. In an opium-induced haze, Thompson could potentially be capable of any number of things. He was living in the area at the time of the murders. And if reports are to be believed, Thompson, spurned by his lady-of-the-night lover, would have had a motive for the killings.
Patterson skillfully magnifies and expounds upon the life of Francis Thompson, so much so that readers, for all that Thompson may or may not have done, cannot help but sympathize. Thompson was an accomplished writer, albeit one under the influence of drugs. His poems and writings are somewhat disturbing at times, but the incredible descriptions and tangible feelings infused in each work evokes a sense of respect. For all his faults, Thompson had talent. It is heartbreaking to know that he wasted away in the streets, rather than live well.
I strongly recommend Jack the Ripper: The Works of Francis Thompson for any reader. Obviously, the subject requires a certain maturity, but even readers who don’t usually delve into historical or non-fiction works will be entertained. The prose is easy to follow, and no prior knowledge of Jack the Ripper is necessary. Patterson presents his case well, and follows a logical process in order to relay the facts and draw connections. The next time you’re craving a taste of the fanatical, pick up Richard Patterson’s Jack the Ripper!
June 19, 2017
Most of us have heard of Jack the Ripper – the almost demonic presence which haunted London in 1888. Jack the Ripper was someone who was never caught, but speculation over their identity remains to this day, capturing the attention of countless, some even devoting their lives to the mystery. In this book, Richard Patterson introduces a new suspect into the fold, building on an article published by Dr. Rupp who first suggested this person in an article on the centenary of the murders in 1988.
Francis Thompson was born into a Catholic family, the son of a doctor, who failed to get into priesthood and went through Medical school 3 times, but failed to be become a doctor himself. Before long, he was addicted to Laudanum and living on the streets of London. He was destitute, living with a prostitute. That is, until he came under the attention of the Meynells, publishers to whom he had submitted some essays and poetry. Mid-1888, on discovering Francis’ work published by them, the prostitute ended their relationship and disappeared. In the period of the Jack the Ripper murders, Francis is living in Whitechapel, searching for this prostitute. A few days after the final murder, he is admitted to hospital.
In Jack the Ripper, The Works of Francis Thompson, the author examines each piece of evidence, from aspects of Francis Thompson’s life to the words in his poetry. The case he presents is commendable and compelling, although relies heavily on circumstantial evidence. While the who and the opportunity is heavily explored and fairly convincing, where the book falls flat is the motive. Patterson does try to explore why Thompson might have become the Ripper, but none of the possible motives felt particularly convincing to me.
That being said, the book is thorough in what it contains, examining different facets of the theory and backing up hypotheses with evidence, albeit that evidence mostly coming in the form of poetry. Regular summaries are provided, so you gradually get a build-up of the various layers in the tale that Patterson is trying to get across. It is an interesting read and, while I was note entirely convinced, it is certainly a book for anyone interested in the mystery that is Jack the Ripper.
Disclaimer: This book was one in a Goodreads giveaway.
Francis Thompson was born into a Catholic family, the son of a doctor, who failed to get into priesthood and went through Medical school 3 times, but failed to be become a doctor himself. Before long, he was addicted to Laudanum and living on the streets of London. He was destitute, living with a prostitute. That is, until he came under the attention of the Meynells, publishers to whom he had submitted some essays and poetry. Mid-1888, on discovering Francis’ work published by them, the prostitute ended their relationship and disappeared. In the period of the Jack the Ripper murders, Francis is living in Whitechapel, searching for this prostitute. A few days after the final murder, he is admitted to hospital.
In Jack the Ripper, The Works of Francis Thompson, the author examines each piece of evidence, from aspects of Francis Thompson’s life to the words in his poetry. The case he presents is commendable and compelling, although relies heavily on circumstantial evidence. While the who and the opportunity is heavily explored and fairly convincing, where the book falls flat is the motive. Patterson does try to explore why Thompson might have become the Ripper, but none of the possible motives felt particularly convincing to me.
That being said, the book is thorough in what it contains, examining different facets of the theory and backing up hypotheses with evidence, albeit that evidence mostly coming in the form of poetry. Regular summaries are provided, so you gradually get a build-up of the various layers in the tale that Patterson is trying to get across. It is an interesting read and, while I was note entirely convinced, it is certainly a book for anyone interested in the mystery that is Jack the Ripper.
Disclaimer: This book was one in a Goodreads giveaway.
February 9, 2022
Richard Patterson is a great conman. He will make you believe Francis Thompson is Jack the Ripper without objective evidence. I have decided to give 'Jack the Ripper, The Works of Francis Thompson' one star, a rating I usually reserve for books I do not finish. If I were not researching the Ripper, I would have DNFed this book (granted, I also probably would never have picked it up!).
In the late-nineteenth century, Francis Thompson was a semi-famous poet searching for a prostitute in London in 1888. On the surface, he is the perfect candidate for the serial killer most people now call 'Jack the Ripper.' Indeed, this review does not dismiss that possibility. I have passed the point of caring who the Ripper is now, though. 'He' has never been caught and now never will be. Nevertheless, Patterson is unself-critical about retrospectively reading crime in this admittedly tormented man.
A quick look at the claims Patterson makes does not hold up under scrutiny, though. One need only look at his pitiful list of references, shorter than most first-year college essays, to see that there has been very little contextual research. Patterson's 'investigation' mainly involves looking at Thompson's poetry, which seems particularly dark, and pointing out coincidences. The author even admits how much he is clutching at straws! Coupled with sexist and classist statements, I wondered how anyone could think of publishing this book at all!
These points do not mention the rampant spelling and grammatical errors throughout the book. By the end, there were multiple on each page. I wonder if Patterson even read his work back, let alone his 'publishers,' although Austin Macauley hardly has the best reputation. Patterson also frequently repeats himself, and his chapters are incredibly formulaic. I thought he was ending the book at least five times, and I wish he had. Petterson did not have to write this book at all, but since he did, it could have been three-quarters of its current length, at least.
I cannot recommend this book to anybody. Possibly some serious 'Ripperologists' would enjoy it, but I would ask them to question what they are reading. Read whatever books you want, but be conscious of the legacy you are continuing.
In the late-nineteenth century, Francis Thompson was a semi-famous poet searching for a prostitute in London in 1888. On the surface, he is the perfect candidate for the serial killer most people now call 'Jack the Ripper.' Indeed, this review does not dismiss that possibility. I have passed the point of caring who the Ripper is now, though. 'He' has never been caught and now never will be. Nevertheless, Patterson is unself-critical about retrospectively reading crime in this admittedly tormented man.
A quick look at the claims Patterson makes does not hold up under scrutiny, though. One need only look at his pitiful list of references, shorter than most first-year college essays, to see that there has been very little contextual research. Patterson's 'investigation' mainly involves looking at Thompson's poetry, which seems particularly dark, and pointing out coincidences. The author even admits how much he is clutching at straws! Coupled with sexist and classist statements, I wondered how anyone could think of publishing this book at all!
These points do not mention the rampant spelling and grammatical errors throughout the book. By the end, there were multiple on each page. I wonder if Patterson even read his work back, let alone his 'publishers,' although Austin Macauley hardly has the best reputation. Patterson also frequently repeats himself, and his chapters are incredibly formulaic. I thought he was ending the book at least five times, and I wish he had. Petterson did not have to write this book at all, but since he did, it could have been three-quarters of its current length, at least.
I cannot recommend this book to anybody. Possibly some serious 'Ripperologists' would enjoy it, but I would ask them to question what they are reading. Read whatever books you want, but be conscious of the legacy you are continuing.
September 30, 2017
This is a fascinating book. I'm not sure how likely it is that Francis Thompson really was or wasn't the ripper, but the evidence shared here is compelling on its own. I was most drawn to this book because as a poet myself, it is hard to imagine another person who is sensitive enough to be a good poet, also being cruel and callous enough to murder in such a reprehensible way. Jack the Ripper didn't just kill, he mutilated. It is hard for me to see a poet being that cold and unfeeling, but perhaps that is simply due to the humanity of the other poets I have been fortunate enough to know and work with. Since I am not an expert on the whole Jack the Ripper case, I can't really say much one way or another about the study put into this book and the accurateness, but it sure is a good story!
January 10, 2019
Even without the Ripper link, Thompson is an interesting character in his own right.
I was not persuaded by the speculative link to the Torso murders, or the question whether he, as a poet, was able to use words to trick the women into going with him as I think that in their desperate circumstances he wouldn't need it.
The symbolism at the end lost me a little, but Patterson does make a compelling case for Thompson, being able to place him in the area for the murders and give him both a motive and a reason for the killings to cease.
I was not persuaded by the speculative link to the Torso murders, or the question whether he, as a poet, was able to use words to trick the women into going with him as I think that in their desperate circumstances he wouldn't need it.
The symbolism at the end lost me a little, but Patterson does make a compelling case for Thompson, being able to place him in the area for the murders and give him both a motive and a reason for the killings to cease.
January 15, 2018
Richard Patterson's "Jack the Ripper: The Works of Francis Thompson" is a great read for people fascinated by Jack the Ripper. When I was a teenager, I was a real amateur Ripperologist, but I hadn't seen anything new or different in years. This is a haunting tale about the poet Francis Thompson. His story and his own words make for a very engrossing story. It will leave you creeped out, for sure! Makes a great read for Halloween!
July 14, 2018
The research in this book is OK but is really let down by execrable sub editing and editing. Spelling mistakes, grammatical errors and sentences finishing part way through abound. A few factual errors present and a lot of repetition occurs. A shame as the theory Mr Thompson is putting forward is both interesting and credible.
September 4, 2022
Would have given this 3 stars had it not been so poorly written and edited. Full of typos, grammatical errors, and repetition. But the theory is interesting. Patterson makes the argument that the tortured Catholic poet Thompson was indeed Jack. I don't believe it, but I tend to follow conspiracy theories as folklore.
December 16, 2017
"Jack the Ripper, The Works of Francis Thompson" by Richard Patterson is an eye opening, chocked full of surprises, biographical book. To find out more about this wonderful work, please read my professional review on HubPages: http://hub.me/alDbJ
November 22, 2020
This provides evidence of what is the best match for who was Jack the Ripper. He had motive & opportunity. He matches the profile generated by profilers. He was a failed medical student that had 6 years dissection experience. His poetry was themed with blood & killing.
April 29, 2017
Richard Patterson has gone where few have gone before him in presenting a reasonably damning case that leans towards naming famed Victorian poet, Francis Thompson as a credible suspect in the case of Jack the Ripper. I say 'leans towards' because the author very cleverly makes the point that he leaves any such conclusion to the reader, even though we know he is pointing the finger directly at the poet.
It's obvious to the reader that Mr. Patterson has indulged in extensive research in producing his book, which at all times presents a vivid insight into life among both the 'haves' and the 'have nots' in the often grand but sometimes stinking metropolis that was Victorian London. The sights, the sounds and the voices he describes are almost tangible in their reality. Having studied the Ripper case for over forty years I now find myself with another credible suspect to consider. Although Mr. Patterson holds back from actually saying 'Francis Thompson WAS Jack the Ripper', I must admit, the evidence as presented in this book is truly compelling. A veritable must read for serious students of the Ripper murders. Highly recommended.
It's obvious to the reader that Mr. Patterson has indulged in extensive research in producing his book, which at all times presents a vivid insight into life among both the 'haves' and the 'have nots' in the often grand but sometimes stinking metropolis that was Victorian London. The sights, the sounds and the voices he describes are almost tangible in their reality. Having studied the Ripper case for over forty years I now find myself with another credible suspect to consider. Although Mr. Patterson holds back from actually saying 'Francis Thompson WAS Jack the Ripper', I must admit, the evidence as presented in this book is truly compelling. A veritable must read for serious students of the Ripper murders. Highly recommended.
Displaying 1 - 20 of 20 reviews