First published 1974
Renowned for his scandalous exploits at the Restoration court of Charles II, the Earl of Rochester was also a brilliant poet whose talents were overshadowed by his wild reputation. This biography by Graham Greene delves into Rochester's tempestuous life - from his biting satires that offended yet amused the king, to his doomed elopement with a wealthy heiress, and his final years clouded by drink and religious turmoil. Through it all, Rochester's singular voice as a lyrical genius emerges, revealing the man behind the myth.
Genres: literary-fiction, historical-fiction, poetry, biography-memoir
Vibes: emotional, intimate, lyrical
Tropes: enemies-to-lovers, unreliable-narrator
Setting: Great Britain
Period: Early modern, 1500-1700
231 pages · Hardcover · Viking