Hardy's First Novel Published: Desperate Remedies
Poet involved
What happened
In 1871, Thomas Hardy published his first novel, Desperate Remedies, in three volumes through William Tinsley, financing the publication himself. Despite its release, the novel's sales were mediocre, reflecting the challenges Hardy faced as a new author. This work laid the groundwork for Hardy's future literary endeavors and marked the beginning of his journey as a significant figure in English literature.
Literary impact
The publication of Desperate Remedies marked Hardy's entry into the literary marketplace, albeit with a sensation novel that bore little resemblance to his later masterpieces. The financial risk he took demonstrated his commitment to a writing career, and the novel's commercial failure taught him valuable lessons about the publishing industry that he would apply to subsequent works.
Source: Hardy Chronology
