Nostromo takes place in Costaguana, an imaginary South American republic, centered on the Gould family's silver mine at Sulaco. Charles Gould, an English owner, wants to make the mine a source of order, while political revolutions threaten to take it. Nostromo, the Italian foreman of the dock workers who is known as incorruptible, is given the task of hiding a shipment of silver. The silver changes him. Joseph Conrad uses a shifting chronology and a large cast to examine imperialism, greed and the corruption of ideals.
It suits readers who like long, serious novels about politics and money. Conrad's structure is demanding, but the novel rewards patient readers with a sharp view of how wealth shapes nations. It is easy to discuss afterwards, since the main question it raises has no single obvious answer.
Deep and thought-provoking; a demanding read.
Best for readers like The Deep Diver. Which reader are you?
- Published
- 1904
- Language
- EN
