The Lure of Fantasy (Bernard Shaw, Vol. 3)

**Delve into the Final Act: Michael Holroyd's Masterful Biography of Bernard Shaw in "The Lure of Fantasy"** Step into the captivating world of Bernard Shaw in his twilight years with Michael Holroyd's "The Lure of Fantasy (Bernard Shaw, Vol. 3)". This is the concluding volume of Holroyd's monumental and critically acclaimed biography, a literary achievement hailed for its depth, wit, and insightful portrayal of one of the 20th century's most influential and enigmatic figures. This First Edition hardcover, published in 1992 by Chatto & Windus, offers readers a privileged glimpse into Shaw's life as a 'conjuror, fabulist and seer'. Picking up the narrative in 1918 during Shaw's fervent campaigning at the General Election, Holroyd meticulously charts the final decades of the playwright's life, moving beyond the public persona to reveal the complex and often contradictory man behind the celebrated works. This volume navigates Shaw's political convictions, his unwavering socialist ideals, and his often controversial pronouncements on social issues, all within the context of a rapidly changing world. It is a story of a man who became a legend in his own lifetime. "The Lure of Fantasy" goes beyond a mere recounting of events; it delves into the inner workings of Shaw's mind, exploring the creative impulses that fueled his prolific output. Holroyd expertly analyzes Shaw's plays from this period, revealing the evolution of his dramatic style and the recurring themes that preoccupied him in his later years. Readers will gain a deeper appreciation for the enduring relevance of Shaw's work and his sharp observations on society, politics, and the human condition. Holroyd's biography is renowned for its meticulous research and its access to previously unpublished materials, including Shaw's personal letters and diaries. This allows Holroyd to paint a richly detailed portrait of Shaw's relationships with family, friends, and fellow artists, including his complex marriage to Charlotte Payne-Townshend. This volume sheds new light on these relationships, revealing the personal dynamics that shaped Shaw's life and work. More than just a biography, "The Lure of Fantasy" is a compelling narrative that captures the spirit of an era. Holroyd expertly weaves together the personal and the political, showing how Shaw's life was inextricably linked to the major events of the 20th century. This book is a must-read for anyone interested in Bernard Shaw, modern literature, or the intellectual history of the 20th century. This First Edition is a treasure to own for collectors and enthusiasts alike. With 299 pages of captivating prose, this volume completes Holroyd's masterful life's work, cementing his place as the definitive biographer of Bernard Shaw. Discover the man behind the legend in "The Lure of Fantasy" - a mysterious, comic, and ultimately moving portrait of a literary giant. This is more than a biography; it is a journey into the mind of a genius.