London Belongs to Me by Norman Collins

London Belongs to Me by Norman Collins was first published in 1945, amidst the closing years of World War II. Collins, a notable figure in British publishing and broadcasting, crafted a novel that offered both escapism and a stark reflection of the contemporary urban experience.

The book quickly gained popularity due to its vivid depiction of London life and the compelling, richly drawn characters that inhabit the boarding house at 10 Dulcimer Street. The post-war period was a time of reconstruction and reflection, and Collins' work resonated with readers who saw their own lives and struggles mirrored in the pages of his novel. Its success was bolstered by the author's keen eye for detail and his ability to weave the mundane with the extraordinary, capturing the essence of a city in flux.

The novel was not only a commercial success but also earned critical acclaim for its authentic portrayal of London's lower-middle-class residents and their everyday battles. Over the decades, London Belongs to Me has maintained its status as a significant literary work, celebrated for its historical value and enduring human themes.

Plot

London Belongs to Me unfolds in the winter of 1938, setting the stage for a gripping narrative that spans the eve of World War II. The story centres around the residents of a dilapidated boarding house at 10 Dulcimer Street, capturing their intertwined lives and individual stories against the backdrop of a city bracing itself for war.

The novel opens with the introduction of Mr. Josser, an elderly man who has just retired from his job in a dreary office. He dreams of a quiet life but soon finds himself entangled in the lives of his neighbours. Among them is Connie Coke, a music hall artiste struggling to revive her waning career, and Percy Boon, a young mechanic whose ambition leads him down a dangerous path. Percy's decision to get involved in a car theft spirals out of control, resulting in a tragic accident and his subsequent arrest for murder. His mother, Mrs. Boon, is devastated, and the boarding house community rallies around her, showcasing the strong bonds formed among the residents.

In the midst of these personal dramas, the broader social and political changes of the era loom large. With the outbreak of World War II, the characters face additional challenges and uncertainties. Mr. Puddy, a reclusive and mysterious figure, reveals surprising facets of his character as he steps up to support his fellow residents. The ever-practical Mrs. Vizzard, who owns the boarding house, deals with her own loneliness and the stresses of managing her eclectic tenants.

As the war progresses, the characters experience love, loss, and moments of unexpected heroism. The novel concludes with a sense of resilience and hope, as the residents of 10 Dulcimer Street prepare to face whatever the future holds together. Collins' narrative captures the essence of ordinary people finding strength in unity during extraordinary times, providing a poignant commentary on the human spirit's capacity to endure and thrive.

Into the Book

One of the central themes in "London Belongs to Me" is the sense of community and solidarity that develops among the residents of 10 Dulcimer Street. The boarding house serves as a microcosm of society, where individuals from diverse backgrounds come together and form a makeshift family.

This theme is evident in the way the characters support each other through various personal crises. For example, when Percy Boon is arrested, the entire boarding house comes together to support Mrs. Boon, showing a profound sense of collective responsibility and empathy. The solidarity among the residents underscores the importance of communal bonds in the face of adversity, reflecting the broader social cohesion that was crucial during the war years.

The plain fact is that there's been too much happening for Percy to be remembered. And, if you must know, Percy was never as important as he thought himself.

- London Belongs to Me by Norman Collins

The theme of struggle and resilience permeates the novel, as each character grapples with their own challenges against the backdrop of impending war. Mr. Josser's transition to retirement, Connie Coke's fight to keep her career alive, and Percy's tragic downfall all illustrate the personal battles faced by the residents.

Despite these struggles, the characters exhibit remarkable resilience. Connie, for instance, refuses to give up on her dreams despite numerous setbacks, embodying the indomitable spirit of those who endure hardship with hope and determination. This resilience is mirrored in the larger narrative of Londoners facing the trials of wartime, highlighting the enduring human capacity to persevere.

"You've heard about Hitler's latest?"

Mr Josser shook his head. So far as he and Hitler were concerned they seemed to get along without telling each other anything.

- London Belongs to Me by Norman Collins

Change and uncertainty are omnipresent themes in "London Belongs to Me," reflecting the societal upheavals of the late 1930s and early 1940s. The looming war brings about a pervasive sense of instability, affecting every character in different ways.

Mr. Puddy, initially a mysterious and solitary figure, evolves into a supportive and reliable member of the community, showcasing personal transformation amid uncertainty. The constant changes force the characters to adapt, highlighting the theme of change as both a challenge and a catalyst for growth. The unpredictability of the future drives the narrative forward, mirroring the real-life anxieties of the time and emphasising the novel's historical context.

As dusk falls, the Park in the background becomes vast and mysterious, and the gas lamps that light your way along the main paths dwindle into the distance like lanterns in Illyria. But somehow or other it remains London, with the buses that cruise up Park Lane twinkling through the railings, and the air filled with the roar and rustle of innumerable wheels. Yes, it's London all right... Or rather, that's how it was in 1939.

- London Belongs to Me by Norman Collins

Why It's a Masterpiece

London Belongs to Me is considered a masterpiece for several compelling reasons. Firstly, Norman Collins' masterful storytelling captures the essence of a pivotal era in British history. Through meticulous detail and rich characterisation, Collins brings to life the everyday experiences of London's lower-middle-class residents on the brink of World War II. His ability to weave together multiple storylines, each with its own unique set of challenges and triumphs, creates a tapestry of human experience that is both engaging and deeply moving.

The novel's enduring appeal also lies in its universal themes. Issues of community, resilience, and change are not confined to a specific time or place; they resonate with readers across generations and geographies. Collins' portrayal of the boarding house as a microcosm of society allows for a nuanced exploration of these themes, making the novel not just a historical snapshot but a timeless reflection on the human condition.

Furthermore, Collins' prose is both accessible and evocative. His descriptive passages paint a vivid picture of London, from the grimy streets to the intimate interiors of Dulcimer Street. This attention to detail immerses readers in the setting, making the city itself a character in the story. The dialogue is equally authentic, capturing the vernacular and rhythms of speech that bring the characters to life.

The novel's structure, with its interwoven narratives, also contributes to its status as a masterpiece. Collins expertly balances multiple perspectives, creating a dynamic and multi-faceted narrative that keeps readers invested in each character's journey. This narrative technique not only enhances the depth of the story but also reflects the interconnectedness of human lives, a theme that is central to the novel.

Conclusion

We continue to read London Belongs to Me today because it offers a timeless exploration of human resilience and community. Its rich characterisation and evocative portrayal of London life resonate with contemporary readers, providing both historical insight and universal themes. The novel's enduring relevance underscores its status as a classic, reminding us of the power of solidarity and the strength of the human spirit in times of adversity.

Next Week: The Grapes of Wrath by John Steinbeck