Point Counter Point

Point Counter Point is a novel written by Aldous Huxley and first published in 1928.

This is one of Aldous Huxley's most emblematic and innovative novels, perhaps the most outstanding before his masterpiece "Brave New World".

The novel traces the lives of several characters belonging to the intellectual and artistic class in plots that intertwine using the contrapuntal technique of music as a narrative structure.

Set in England after World War I, a period of great change, the novel highlights the character of Walter Bidlake. He is a man trapped in a difficult love relationship and who is involved in a search for vital purpose.

We also find John Bidlake, Walter's father and famous artist in old age and illness or Maurice Spandrell, a cynic and disillusioned with life.

The way of linking the stories is what makes the novel unique, in a complex and harmonious pattern. Each story is a separate voice in a musical composition and intermingles sublimely with the others.

“You won’t be late?” There was anxiety in Marjorie Carling’s voice, there was something like entreaty.
“No, I won’t be late,” said Walter, unhappily and guiltily certain that he would be. Her voice annoyed him. It drawled a little, it was too refined— even in misery.