The Painful Pleasure of Wretched Love

Shropshire Star features Gordon Howdle, who has just published his first novel, Heathcliff's Fortune, at 81.

Mr Howdle, who is married to his wife Jannice, and has three children, said he had first read the 1847 book when studying for his GCEs at school.

He said that while many consider the classic as a tale of romance, he had always noted the theme of revenge.

Mr Howdle said that he had been fascinated by the three-year departure of the book's central male character, Heathcliff, who leaves as a lowly farm hand, and returns as a wealthy man.

He said that his book examines how Heathcliff made the fortune – drawing on the influence of a notorious Shropshire historical figure – Robert Clive, Lord Clive of India.

Mr Howdle said: "Ever since I became acquainted with Emily Brontë's novel Wuthering Heights all those years ago when I was studying for my GCE 'O' Level in English Literature, I have been fascinated by one aspect of the story.

"How was it that Heathcliff, the central male character of the book, who left Wuthering Heights as a poor farm boy returned just three years later as a wealthy gentleman?

"Over the years I have been interested in the British involvement with India, in particular the activities of the Honourable East India Company, and in the life of Robert Clive, Lord Clive of India. An interest heightened by the fact that Clive himself was a Shropshire man who many see as being the founder of the British Empire.

"At some stage it occurred to me that perhaps I could possibly pull the two things together – was it possible?

"The central problem seemed to be that Heathcliff was away from Wuthering Heights for just three years, which at first seemed a very short time for him to journey to India, make a fortune and return. Especially in the late eighteenth century when the journey could only be by sailing ship.

"However, the more I looked into it the more I realised it was indeed possible, just possible, for Heathcliff to make the journey and return in a period of three years."

Heathcliff's Fortune has been published by The Book Guild, and Mr Howdle said he was hugely gratified that a publisher had been willing to take it on.

But, he has issued a warning about the tale, saying it is written to reflect the attitudes of the time, and uses references that "rightly, are not acceptable in today's society". (Dominic Robertson)

Great British Life interviews writer Laura Purcell.

I’ve just finished reading your 2017 novel, The Silent Companions, and loved it – it’s really chilling! What is it that draws you to write spooky stories?

Looking back, I’ve always been drawn towards Gothic stories. During my teenage years I was obsessed with The Phantom of the Opera and Wuthering Heights, and I’m a big fan of horror movies, but it wasn’t really what I planned on writing. I started my career with historical novels about the Hanoverian queens. However, after seeing real life silent companions – wooden dummy boards painted to look like people – I couldn’t get them out of my mind. These creepy objects were just asking for a scary story of their own! (Andrea Ashfield)

GoBookMart lists 'Literature’s Top 10 Romantic Couples' including

Jane Eyre and Mr. Rochester (Jane Eyre by Charlotte Brontë)

The romance between Jane Eyre and Mr. Rochester in Charlotte Brontë’s novel sets a high standard for love through its emphasis on equality, respect, and moral integrity. Despite the social barriers and personal secrets that challenge their relationship, Jane’s steadfast commitment to her principles and Rochester’s eventual recognition and admiration for her strength of character redefine what it means to love and be loved.

Their journey towards a relationship that respects each partner’s autonomy and worth illustrates the importance of mutual respect and personal growth in love. This timeless story elevates our standards for romance, championing a love that is not only passionate but also deeply rooted in the dignity and equality of each individual.

Heathcliff and Catherine (Wuthering Heights by Emily Brontë)

The tumultuous romance between Heathcliff and Catherine in “Wuthering Heights” by Emily Brontë sets a profound standard for love, illustrating its all-consuming and enduring nature. Their intense emotional bond, transcending social norms and even death, highlights the depth of passion and the lengths one is willing to go for the sake of love.

This story challenges us to consider the power of a love that refuses to be tamed by societal expectations, and instead, chooses to exist in its most raw and unyielding form. Heathcliff and Catherine’s connection serves as a reminder of love’s capacity to endure beyond the confines of conventional boundaries, raising our expectations for a love that is both deep and everlasting. (Akansha)

The New Yorker's podcast Critics at Large has an episode on the Painful Pleasure of Wretched Love which includes mentions of Wuthering Heights. StyleBlueprint shares 'A Hopeless Romantic’s Reading List' which includes Jane Eyre.