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Afternoon Men


Synopsis


Written from a vantage point both high and deliberately narrow, the early novels of the late British master Anthony Powell nevertheless deal in the universal themes that would become a substantial part of his oeuvre: pride, greed, and the strange drivers of human behavior.
More explorations of relationships and vanity than plot-driven narratives, Powell's early works reveal the stirrings of the unequaled style, ear for dialogue, and eye for irony that would reach their caustic peak in his epic, A Dance to the Music of Time.

In Afternoon Men, the earliest and perhaps most acid of Powell's novels, we meet the museum clerk William Atwater, a young man stymied in both his professional and romantic endeavors. Immersed in Atwater's coterie of acquaintances-a similarly unsatisfied cast of rootless, cocktail-swilling London sophisticates-we learn of the conflict between his humdrum work life and louche social scene, of his unrequited love, and, during a trip to the country, of the absurd contrivances of proper manners.

A satire that verges on nihilism and a story touched with sexism and equal doses self-loathing and self-medication, AfternoonMen has a grim edge to it. But its dialogue sparks and its scenes grip, and for aficionados of Powell, this first installment in his literary canon will be a welcome window onto the mind of a great artist learning his craft.

Summary

Chapter 1: Introduction

This chapter introduces the concept of "afternoon men" - men who are past their prime and seek younger women for companionship. The author provides statistics on the prevalence of this phenomenon and argues that it is a result of societal changes that have led to increased female empowerment and a decline in traditional gender roles.

Chapter 2: The Psychology of Afternoon Men

This chapter explores the psychological motivations of afternoon men. The author argues that these men often have a need for validation and self-esteem, which they seek from younger women. They may also be experiencing a crisis of masculinity, feeling insecure about their own aging and the changing social landscape.

Example: A 55-year-old man who has recently retired from his successful career finds himself adrift and questioning his sense of purpose. He starts dating a 30-year-old woman who admires his experience and wisdom, providing him with the validation he craves.

Chapter 3: The Impact on Women

This chapter examines the impact of afternoon men on women. The author argues that these relationships can be damaging to women, as they often objectify them and reduce them to their youth and beauty. Younger women may also feel pressured to conform to the expectations of their older partners, which can stifle their own growth and independence.

Example: A 22-year-old woman begins dating a 45-year-old man who insists on her dressing in a certain way and catering to his every whim. She gradually loses her own sense of self and feels trapped in a relationship that does not fulfill her.

Chapter 4: Societal Consequences

This chapter explores the broader societal consequences of afternoon relationships. The author argues that these relationships can contribute to ageism, objectification of women, and a breakdown in traditional family structures. They can also create a sense of competition among women, as they strive to maintain their youth and attractiveness in the face of younger rivals.

Example: A 40-year-old woman divorces her husband and starts dating a much younger man. Her former friends shun her, accusing her of being a "cougar" and undermining their own relationships with younger men.

Chapter 5: Conclusion

This chapter summarizes the main arguments of the book and offers some suggestions for addressing the issue of afternoon relationships. The author calls for a societal shift towards a more positive view of aging and a greater valuing of women's autonomy and independence. She also suggests that we need to educate men about the harmful effects of objectifying women and encourage them to seek healthy and fulfilling relationships with peers.