Way of All Flesh

by Samuel Butler

The Way of All Flesh (1903) is a compelling semi-autobiographical novel by Samuel Butler that boldly critiques the hypocrisy of the Victorian era. Spanning the lives of four generations of the Pontifex family, the narrative explores the decline of religious fervor, particularly through a Calvinistic lens that Butler portrays as unforgiving. Although he hesitated to publish it during his lifetime, the novel emerged posthumously as a powerful voice against Victorian ideals. Recognized for its impact, it ranks as the 12th greatest novel of the 20th century according to the Modern Library Board of Editors. (Summary from Wikipedia)