The pretender: A story of the Latin Quarter: Classic Book Guide and Free Edition
The pretender: A story of the Latin Quarter: author and translator credits, catalogue synopsis, subjects and links to the Gutenberg reading formats.

The pretender: A story of the Latin Quarter is catalogued by Project Gutenberg with author credits for Service, Robert W. (Robert William) (1874–1958).
Catalogue synopsis
Project Gutenberg supplies this automated synopsis of the opening text:
"The Pretender: A Story of the Latin Quarter" by Robert W. Service is a novel written in the early 20th century. The book explores themes of identity, ambition, and the clash between artistic ideals and commercial success. The protagonist, James H. Madden, is introduced as a wealthy and carefree young man wrestling with his literary aspirations while facing societal expectations. The opening of the novel sets the stage for Madden's internal conflict as he relaxes in a comfortable club, reflecting on his life, financial security, and the paradox of living in ease while yearning for deeper artistic fulfillment. He joyfully recounts his happiness and fortune but soon reveals a sense of unease sparked by overheard conversation critical of his work. This leads him to doubt both himself and the legitimacy of his success, prompting thoughts of starting anew in London, where he imagines fighting for recognition in a more challenging environment. The beginning establishes a juxtaposition between his current luxurious but unfulfilling life and his potential future struggles, hinting at the protagonist's quest for authenticity and meaning in a world he feels disconnected from.
Book and edition facts
- Title: The pretender: A story of the Latin Quarter
- Author credits: Service, Robert W. (Robert William) (1874–1958)
- Catalogue language: English
Catalogue subjects
- Americans -- France -- Fiction
- Authors -- Fiction
- Married men -- Fiction
- Quartier latin (Paris, France) -- Fiction
Gutenberg collections
- Category: Novels
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View the complete Gutenberg catalogue record. Project Gutenberg identifies this edition as public domain in the United States; that designation does not establish its copyright status in every country.
Source notes
Catalogue metadata is public domain and is supplied through Gutendex, which imports Gutenberg's machine-readable catalogue. The automated synopsis is source-supplied, not an independently verified review. Author dates above describe the credited people; no ebook release date is presented as the book's original publication date.


