Keep the Aspidistra Flying

Gordon Comstock, poet and author, gives up a good job to become a part-time bookshop assistant, thereby gaining time to write.

Despite modest success, he manages a long slide into rebellion.

The symbol for all that he rebels against is the ugly aspidistra, which represents total submission to tyranny.

Gordon's voyage comes at the dismay of his family and the ever-faithful Rosemary, who offer both love and security which challenge Gordon's new way of life.