Summary:
The Dark Flower is a novel by John Galsworthy, first published in 1913. It explores the theme of love through different stages of a man’s life, examining its complexities, passions, and consequences. The novel follows Mark Lennan, an artist, as he experiences three major romantic relationships at different ages—youth, middle age, and maturity.
- First Love (Youth): Mark, a young student, falls in love with his professor’s wife, Anna Stormer. Their affair is filled with youthful passion and longing but ends due to its impracticality and societal constraints.
- Middle Love (Adulthood): In his 30s, Mark becomes involved with Olive, a married woman. This relationship is deeper and more conflicted, showing the struggles of love against morality and duty.
- Last Love (Maturity): In his later years, Mark falls for a much younger woman, Sylvia. This stage reflects his realization of the fleeting nature of passion and the acceptance of love’s impermanence.
The title The Dark Flower symbolizes love’s beauty, intensity, and ultimate sorrow. Galsworthy paints love as an emotional force that both enriches and torments human life. The novel deeply examines the psychological and moral struggles of love, making it a timeless meditation on human relationships.

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Question | Answer |
Book Name | The Dark Flower |
Author | John Galsworthy |
Year Published | 1913 |
Book Type | Novel, Romance, Psychological Fiction |
Main Themes | Love, Passion, Morality, Emotional Growth |
Setting | Early 20th century England |
Main Characters | Mark Lennan, Anna Stormer, Olive, Sylvia |
Symbolism | The dark flower represents love’s beauty and sorrow |
Literary Significance | Explores love from a psychological perspective |
Writing Style | Realistic, Deeply Emotional |