Under the Net

 Author: Iris Murdoch

Introduction

In the realm of British literature, Iris Murdoch's novel Under the Net stands as a masterpiece that delves into the serendipity and unpredictability of modern life. Published in 1954, this picaresque novel takes readers on a captivating journey through Europe alongside the witty and clever protagonist, Jake Donaghue. As an aspiring writer, Jake navigates a world of illusions and ideals, encountering a cast of eccentric characters along the way. This article will explore the key themes, characters, and plot points of Under the Net, providing insights into Murdoch's unique modernist spin on the traditional picaresque genre.

The Picaresque Genre: A Comedic Exploration of Social Climbing

Under the Net falls under the genre of picaresque literature, a comedic form that follows the adventures of a cunning protagonist from the lower class as they navigate their way up in society through their wit and charm. Jake Donaghue embodies this archetype, relying on his sharp intellect and quick thinking to navigate the chaotic modern world. The novel's modernist twist adds depth to this traditional genre, highlighting Jake's role as a freeloader who surprisingly finds success through chance encounters and the chaos of his surroundings.

Synopsis: Jake's Journey Begins in London

The novel opens with Jake's return to London after a brief visit to France. He discovers that he and his distant cousin Finn have been evicted from their benefactor Madge's house to make way for her new boyfriend, Sammy Starfield. As Jake packs his belongings, he stumbles upon a translation he had previously worked on, which reminds him of his philosophical friend, Dave Gellman. Intrigued, Jake pays a visit to Dave's apartment, leaving his suitcase behind. At Dave's suggestion, he seeks out Anna Quentin, his former lover and a singer, who directs him to her sister, Sadie.

The Search for Hugo Bellfounder and Encounters Along the Way

While tracking down Sadie, who is hiding from Hugo Bellfounder's infatuation, Jake reminisces about their philosophical discussions on language. Returning to Madge's to collect his remaining possessions, Jake is confronted by Sammy, who bribes him to leave peacefully. Seizing the opportunity, Jake gambles the money over the phone and remarkably wins £633. He agrees to house-sit for Sadie but soon realizes he is trapped, prompting Finn and Dave to help him escape.

Pursuit of Love and the Quest for Resolution

With an accidental phone call signaling Hugo's love for Anna, Jake becomes determined to find him. Joined by Dave and Finn, Jake embarks on a bar-hopping adventure in search of Hugo. Along the way, they encounter Lefty Todd, an activist, and even take a swim in the Thames. Their escapades lead them to a studio in South London, where a political march triggers chaos on the movie set. Jake manages to escape with the help of Mr. Mars, Sammy's dog.

Betrayal, Blackmail, and the Pursuit of Happiness

Infuriated by overhearing Sammy and Sadie's plot to steal one of his translations, Jake recruits Finn to break into Sammy's apartment and retrieve the script. However, their mission fails, and Jake resorts to taking Mr. Mars as leverage. A tabloid reveals that Anna is heading to Hollywood with a stopover in Paris, prompting Jake to continue his pursuit of Hugo. In a twist of fate, Jake receives a job offer in Paris and money from Madge, but Sammy cancels his check. Determined to turn the tide, Jake and Dave bet on Lyrebird and win.

A Rollercoaster of Emotions in Paris

On Bastille Day, Jake discovers that his writing rival, Jean-Pierre Breteuil, has won an award for his novel. Disillusioned by the prospect of a job in the film industry, Jake walks through the streets of Paris and spots Anna in a crowd but loses her in the chaos. His search leads him to encounter a look-alike instead. The following day, Jake learns that his bet on Lyrebird has succeeded, but Finn disappears with his share of the winnings, leaving Jake in a state of depression.

Rediscovering Purpose and Finding Love

In the weeks that follow, Jake finds work as a hospital assistant, where he unexpectedly encounters Hugo as a patient. To avoid jeopardizing his job, Jake visits Hugo in the middle of the night, discovering that Hugo is not in love with Anna but rather in love with Sadie, who loves Jake. Jake helps Hugo escape the hospital but ultimately quits before getting fired. As the novel concludes, Jake visits Hugo, who has vanished, and reunites Mr. Mars with Sammy. Having made peace with his conflicts, Jake reflects on his future as a writer with renewed optimism.

Characters

1. James Donaghue (Jake)
2. Peter O'Finney (Finn)
3. Magdalen Casement (Madge)
4. Samuel Starfield (Sammy)
5. Mrs Tinckham
6. Dave Gellman
7. Lefty Todd
8. Anna Quentin
9. Sadie Quentin
10. Hugo Belfounder
11. Ward Matron, Sister Piddingham, Stitch
12. Mister Mars
13. Jean-Pierre Breteuil
14. Homer K. Pringsheim (H.K.)

1. James Donaghue (Jake)

James Donaghue, often referred to as Jake, is the protagonist of Under the Net. He is a writer and translator in his early thirties, known for his quick wit and sharp observations. Jake is a complex character, constantly grappling with his own identity and searching for meaning in his life. Throughout the novel, he embarks on a series of misadventures and encounters that challenge his perceptions and force him to confront his own flaws.

2. Peter O'Finney (Finn)

Peter O'Finney, also known as Finn, is a distant cousin of Jake's and one of his closest friends. Finn is a laid-back and carefree character, often providing a contrast to Jake's more introspective nature. He is a source of comic relief in the novel, with his eccentricities and unique perspective on life. Finn serves as a constant companion to Jake, accompanying him on his various escapades and offering support along the way.

3. Magdalen Casement (Madge)

Magdalen Casement, commonly known as Madge, is a typist living on Earls Court Road. She is a complex character, captivating Jake with her beauty and enigmatic personality. Madge is independent and mysterious, often leaving Jake intrigued and searching for answers. She plays a significant role in the plot, becoming a catalyst for Jake's self-discovery and transformation.

4. Samuel Starfield (Sammy)

Samuel Starfield, known as Sammy, is a wealthy bookmaker and one of Jake's acquaintances. He is a larger-than-life character, known for his extravagant lifestyle and connections to the underworld. Sammy's relationship with Jake is complicated, with moments of camaraderie and tension. He represents a different world from Jake's, highlighting the stark contrasts and moral dilemmas that the protagonist faces.

5. Mrs Tinckham

Mrs Tinckham is a chain-smoking, cat-loving shopkeeper near Charlotte Street. She is a quirky character, often providing Jake with peculiar advice and insights. Mrs Tinckham's presence in the novel adds a touch of whimsy and unpredictability. Despite her seemingly minor role, she leaves a lasting impression on Jake and contributes to his journey of self-discovery.

6. Dave Gellman

Dave Gellman is a Jewish anti-Metaphysical philosopher living on Goldhawk Road. He is a complex character, known for his intellectual pursuits and philosophical debates. Dave and Jake form an unlikely friendship, engaging in deep conversations about life, meaning, and the nature of existence. Their interactions offer a thought-provoking exploration of philosophy and its impact on personal growth.

7. Lefty Todd

Lefty Todd is the leader of the New Independent Socialist Party. He is a charismatic and politically driven character, passionate about his ideals and beliefs. Lefty Todd's presence in the novel adds a political dimension, exploring themes of social change and activism. Jake's encounters with Lefty Todd challenge his own perspectives and force him to question his own role in society.

8. Anna Quentin

Anna Quentin is a talented singer who captures Jake's attention with her captivating voice. She is a free-spirited and independent character, unafraid to pursue her dreams and desires. Anna's interactions with Jake highlight the themes of love, desire, and the pursuit of artistic expression. Her presence in the novel serves as a catalyst for Jake's emotional journey.

9. Sadie Quentin

Sadie Quentin is a film star and Anna's sister. She is a glamorous and enigmatic character, often overshadowing Anna with her larger-than-life personality. Sadie's presence adds a touch of Hollywood glamour to the novel, exploring themes of fame, success, and the price one pays for it. Her relationship with Jake is complex, further complicating his own journey of self-discovery.

10. Hugo Belfounder

Hugo Belfounder is a fireworks manufacturer and film magnate. He is a wealthy and influential character, known for his extravagant parties and connections to the film industry. Hugo's role in the novel adds a touch of grandeur and opulence, contrasting with the more mundane aspects of Jake's life. His interactions with Jake offer insights into the world of wealth, power, and the pursuit of pleasure.

11. Ward Matron, Sister Piddingham, Stitch

Ward Matron, Sister Piddingham, and Stitch are characters who play minor roles in the novel, but their presence is crucial in certain scenes. Ward Matron represents the authority and structure of the hospital setting, while Sister Piddingham and Stitch provide glimpses into the everyday lives of hospital staff. These characters serve as a backdrop to Jake's experiences and offer insights into the broader world he inhabits.

12. Mister Mars

Mister Mars is a 14-year-old Alsatian and the star of many popular animal movies. He is a beloved character in the novel, providing moments of levity and warmth. Mister Mars represents loyalty and companionship, offering solace to Jake in times of uncertainty. His presence adds a touch of innocence and simplicity to the story, contrasting with the complexities of human relationships.

13. Jean-Pierre Breteuil

Jean-Pierre Breteuil is a French writer whose novels include Le Rossignol de Bois ("The Wooden Nightingale"), Les Pierres de l'Amour ("Stones of Love"), and Nous les Vainqueurs ("We who Vanquished"). He is a renowned figure in the literary world, admired by Jake and others for his talent and success. Jean-Pierre Breteuil's work serves as a backdrop to the exploration of art, literature, and the creative process in the novel.

14. Homer K. Pringsheim (H.K.)

Homer K. Pringsheim, commonly referred to as H.K., is an American film magnate. He is a powerful and influential character, known for his connections to the film industry. H.K.'s role in the novel adds a touch of Hollywood glamour and commercialism, highlighting the tension between art and commerce. His interactions with Jake offer insights into the world of filmmaking and the compromises one must make for success.

Themes

In the novel "Under the Net" by Iris Murdoch, a complex tapestry of themes is interwoven to create a thought-provoking exploration of the human experience. This article aims to delve into these themes, including the search for meaning and identity, the nature of language and communication, the role of art and creativity, unrequited love, and the theme of silence. By examining these themes, we can gain a deeper understanding of the profound questions Murdoch poses and the insights she offers through her characters and their journeys.

The Search for Meaning and Identity

One of the central themes in "Under the Net" is the search for meaning and identity. The protagonist, Jake Donaghue, embarks on a quest to find himself and his place in the world. Throughout the novel, Jake encounters a diverse cast of characters, each grappling with their own existential questions. Murdoch masterfully captures the complexities of the human condition as Jake navigates through various relationships and experiences in his search for purpose and fulfillment.

The theme of the search for meaning and identity is intricately intertwined with Jake's personal growth and development. As he navigates through different relationships and encounters, he begins to question the nature of existence and the significance of his own life. Murdoch prompts readers to reflect on their own search for meaning and invites us to ponder the universal human desire to find purpose and understand our place in the world.

The Nature of Language and Communication

Another significant theme in "Under the Net" is the nature of language and communication. Murdoch explores the power of language to both connect and divide people. Through her characters, she demonstrates how language can be a tool for understanding and miscommunication. Jake, in his interactions with others, often finds himself struggling to express his thoughts and feelings effectively.

The limitations of language become apparent as Jake grapples with the complexities of human relationships. Murdoch's exploration of language serves as a reminder of the inherent difficulties in truly understanding one another. She challenges us to consider how language shapes our perceptions and interactions, and how the nuances of communication can sometimes be lost or misunderstood.

The Role of Art and Creativity in Human Life

The role of art and creativity is a recurring theme in "Under the Net." Murdoch emphasizes the transformative power of art to transcend the limitations of language and express deeper truths about the human experience. Through Jake's interactions with artists and creative individuals, Murdoch highlights the importance of artistic expression as a means of connection and self-discovery.

Art becomes a refuge for Jake, offering him solace and a means of exploring the depths of his own emotions. It serves as a medium through which he can communicate and understand the world around him. Murdoch's exploration of the role of art and creativity invites us to consider the ways in which artistic expression can enrich our lives and help us make sense of our own experiences.

Unrequited Love

Unrequited love is a significant theme that runs throughout "Under the Net." Jake's unrequited love for Anna becomes a driving force in the narrative, shaping his actions and influencing his search for meaning. Murdoch portrays the pain and frustration that comes with loving someone who does not feel the same way, illuminating the complexities of human emotions and the impact they have on our lives.

Through Jake's experience of unrequited love, we witness the profound effect it has on his sense of self and his relationships with others. Murdoch's exploration of this theme allows us to reflect on the universal human experience of longing and the ways in which unrequited love can shape our perspectives and interactions.

Silence as a Form of Communication

Silence emerges as a recurring theme in "Under the Net," serving as a form of communication that can be just as powerful as words. Murdoch portrays silence as a means of expressing deeper truths that words fail to convey. Jake, in his struggle to communicate his thoughts and feelings, often finds solace in silence, recognizing its ability to transcend the limitations of language.

The theme of silence highlights the complexities of human relationships and the difficulty of truly understanding one another. Murdoch invites us to consider the significance of silence in our own lives and the ways in which it can both hinder and facilitate communication.