Throughout his short, unhappy life, C acquired a reputation for secrecy. Misunderstood by his parents and classmates, he became accustomed to hiding his true feelings and it was only after his death that the details of his private life were discovered. C's personal effects were sent to Maurice Baring, who wrote this fictionalized account of his unhappy life, based on true events and personalities.
Maurice Baring was the author of over 50 works, including plays, biographies, translations, poetry, and novels.
Emma Letley is a novelist and critic.