Vile Bodies
What is Vile Bodies about?
Vile Bodies (1930) is Evelyn Waugh’s second novel, a frenzied satire of the Bright Young Things—the hedonistic young aristocrats and socialites of late 1920s London. Adam Fenwick-Symes, a would-be novelist, lurches through a world of wild parties, gossip columns, motor racing, and financial catastrophe, trying to accumulate enough money to marry his fiancée Nina. The novel’s dizzying pace and sharp dialogue capture the manic, directionless energy of a generation dancing on the edge of an abyss—the book ends with a prophetic vision of a future war.
Main themes in Vile Bodies
Bright Young Things
Vile Bodies thoughtfully explores bright young things through its central conflicts.
1920s London
The presence of 1920s london in Vile Bodies connects readers to its enduring relevance.
Social satire
Vile Bodies thoughtfully explores social satire through its central conflicts.
Hedonism
Vile Bodies thoughtfully explores hedonism through its central conflicts.
Why Vile Bodies is still relevant today
Vile Bodies perfectly captures the frenetic energy and spiritual emptiness of the 1920s party scene. Its prophetic ending anticipates the coming war, and its satire of celebrity culture feels remarkably modern.
More by this author
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Vile Bodies about?
A frenzied satire of 1920s London’s party-going aristocrats, following a young man’s chaotic attempts to earn enough money to marry his fiancée.
What are the Bright Young Things?
The real-life hedonistic young aristocrats and socialites of 1920s London who lived for parties and publicity.
How does it compare to Decline and Fall?
It is darker and more frenetic, with a larger cast and a prophetic ending that anticipates war.
Can I read it free online?
Yes, the complete novel is available free on TextStack.