Martin Eden

The novel follows the life of a young sailor, Martin Eden, and his efforts to become a writer. When he falls in love with the beautiful and educated Ruth, he works tirelessly to improve his education and writing skills. Through hard work, Martin eventually achieves success, but finds himself unable to break free from the social structures he has tried to escape. Martin Eden represents a kind of authorial alter ego - a writer who refuses to pander to contemporary readerly tastes and participate in the American Dream.