Hogarth: The Strutting Saboteur, Robert Stott, 2022, Amazon, Historical fiction
William Hogarth suffered degradation in the debtor’s prison; a spirited but vulnerable child, tormented by rich and powerful bullies. Learning at an early age about abuse of power and corrupt practices, he quickly develops a hatred of the social elite.
Despite this, Hogarth yearns to join the elite to escape the exploitation of his lowly status. His prolific artistic talent provides the opportunity to achieve this dream, his brilliant satirical prints bring him esteem and national celebrity. But Hogarth is perverse, obstinate and wilful. His prints mock the very people he hopes to impress.
His rebellious behaviour upsets powerful friends, and his wife. His candour and lack of discretion create a daunting array of committed enemies keen to take revenge and destroy his ambitions. In the end what will prevail – his strutting, his enemies, or his genius?
Carindale Writers Group 