The Town Traveller

The story in The Town Traveller is set in the fictional town of Polterham and follows the life and experiences of the central character Arthur Golding. Golding is a gentleman who is estranged from his family due to his unconventional behavior and his desire to live a life that deviates from the norm. The novel explores the dynamics of social class family and individual choices particularly Arthur Golding's attempts to forge his own path.The title The Town Traveller suggests a character who is an outsider or unconventional in his community. The novel delves into the challenges faced by those who do not conform to societal expectations and the impact of these choices on their relationships and well-being.George Gissing was known for his realistic and often critical depictions of the social and economic struggles of the lower and middle classes in late 19th-century England. The Town Traveller is an example of his exploration of these themes and his focus on the moral and ethical dilemmas faced by his characters.While Gissing's works may not be as widely read today as those of some of his contemporaries they are valued for their portrayal of the social and economic conditions of the time and their examination of the complexities of human relationships and the pursuit of personal and societal goals.