The Secret Agent

Joseph Conrad, 1907

Date read: 2/28/26

First of all, as a teacher of English as a second language, I am beyond impressed with Conrad. I believe English was his third language, at least his second, and he not only wrote in it but is considered one of the greatest writers of English of all time! I cannot imagine learning a second language that well. I can't even write in my native language half as well as he.

This story was a bit convoluted but written so it isn't difficult to follow. However, it is breathtakingly sad. I related very strongly with Winnie because my first marriage was like hers - not a love match, but a match made to support a dependent (mine was a son, hers was her brother and mom). Thats not a bad thing! People act like love is the only acceptable basis for marriage, which is just silly. Marriage is a legal construct. My current husband and I would have the same relationship regardless if we were legally married...we only married because he's an immigrant.

Anyway. I love my husband deeply but if he was responsible for the death of one of my children, like Mr Verloc was for the death of Stevie, and was not remorseful, I would probably stab him, too.

As usual with the list, a deeply saddening story.