Hugh Lofting – The Twilight Of Magic – New Edition

Author: Hugh Lofting
Price: £30
Publisher: Jonathan Cape, London, UK
Publication date: 1958
Format: Original cloth. Dustwrapper
Condition: Near fine in a very good plus dustwrapper
Edition: New edition

Description: New edition. Top edge spotted else a near fine, tight, clean copy in very good plus, slightly marked, rubbed and creased dustwrapper. A very nice copy indeed.

Location: OSR: 002612

The Twilight Of Magic: A Brief Review

Published in 1931 in the UK, The Twilight of Magic is a departure from Hugh Lofting’s well-known Doctor Dolittle series. This standalone novel is a historical fantasy that blends Lofting’s vivid imagination with a touch of medieval nostalgia. Set in a world where magic is fading, the book explores themes of belief, change, and the transition from an enchanted past to a more rational age. Though lesser-known than his famous animal doctor tales, The Twilight of Magic stands out for its charm, depth, and allegorical resonance.

Plot Summary

The story takes place in a medieval kingdom where magic is on the brink of extinction, with wizards and witches viewed as relics of a bygone era. The protagonists, Andrew and Lucy, are two children whose curiosity and open-mindedness lead them on an extraordinary journey. They stumble upon an old woman accused of witchcraft, who possesses the remnants of magical knowledge.

As the children delve deeper into her world, they uncover the secrets of her craft, learning about the beauty and power of magic. Their journey is complicated by societal scepticism and fear of the unknown, as well as the looming question of whether magic has a place in the changing world.

The narrative follows their adventures, including encounters with other magical beings and challenges that test their courage, morality, and belief in wonder. The story culminates in a poignant reflection on the inevitability of change and the enduring value of imagination.

Themes

1. The Fading of Magic: The novel explores the twilight of an age of wonder, drawing parallels with the transition from myth and superstition to science and reason.
2. Childhood Curiosity: Through Andrew and Lucy, the story celebrates the openness and wonder of children, contrasting it with the cynicism of adults.
3. Fear of the Unknown: The societal suspicion of magic serves as an allegory for fear of change and the marginalisation of those who are different.
4. Imagination and Belief: Lofting underscores the importance of maintaining a sense of wonder and creativity, even in a rational world.
5. Morality and Courage: The children’s actions highlight themes of bravery, empathy, and standing up for what is right.

Key Characters

• Andrew: A curious and brave boy, Andrew is the driving force behind much of the story’s action. His belief in magic and his loyalty to Lucy are central to the narrative.
• Lucy: Andrew’s companion, Lucy is intelligent and resourceful, providing balance and emotional depth to their partnership.
• The Old Woman (Witch): The enigmatic figure at the heart of the story, she represents the last vestiges of magic and wisdom from a fading era.
• Other Villagers: The villagers embody the scepticism and fear of change that drive much of the conflict in the story.

Writing Style

Hugh Lofting’s prose in The Twilight of Magic is elegant and evocative, capturing the medieval setting with rich detail and a touch of mysticism. His ability to blend whimsical storytelling with meaningful themes is evident, though the tone is more serious and reflective than in the Doctor Dolittle series. Lofting’s descriptions of the natural world and magical elements are particularly vivid, immersing readers in the story’s enchanted atmosphere.

While the book does not feature Lofting’s trademark illustrations, his storytelling remains visual and cinematic, drawing readers into its medieval landscapes and mystical encounters.

Strengths

1. Unique Premise: The concept of a fading magical age is both imaginative and poignant, offering a fresh take on fantasy.
2. Rich Themes: The story’s exploration of belief, change, and imagination resonates on both a personal and societal level.
3. Engaging Characters: Andrew and Lucy are relatable and well-drawn protagonists, embodying the curiosity and courage of youth.
4. Timeless Messages: The novel’s emphasis on wonder and empathy remains relevant, appealing to readers of all ages.
5. Atmospheric Setting: Lofting’s depiction of a medieval world on the cusp of transformation is immersive and evocative.

Criticisms

1. Slower Pacing: The story unfolds at a measured pace, which may feel slow to readers accustomed to action-driven narratives.
2. Lack of Humour: Compared to the Doctor Dolittle books, this novel has a more serious tone, which might not appeal to fans of Lofting’s lighter works.
3. Ambiguous Ending: The conclusion, while poignant, leaves some questions unanswered, which may frustrate readers seeking closure.
4. Limited Focus on Magic: Despite its title, the story spends more time on the societal implications of magic’s decline than on the magic itself, which might disappoint fans of traditional fantasy.

Impact and Legacy

The Twilight of Magic is a thought-provoking addition to Hugh Lofting’s body of work, showcasing his versatility as a storyteller. While it never achieved the widespread fame of the Doctor Dolittle series, the book is appreciated for its mature themes and lyrical prose. Its exploration of a world transitioning from wonder to reason offers a timeless allegory for readers navigating change in their own lives.

The novel’s subtlety and depth make it a hidden gem in Lofting’s oeuvre, appealing to those who value introspective, allegorical storytelling over fast-paced adventure.

Conclusion

The Twilight of Magic is a beautifully crafted tale that blends fantasy with philosophy, offering a reflective and bittersweet exploration of change, belief, and imagination. While its slower pacing and serious tone may not suit all readers, those who appreciate thoughtful, character-driven stories will find much to admire.

For fans of Hugh Lofting’s work and readers drawn to stories about the intersection of magic and reality, The Twilight of Magic offers a poignant and rewarding journey into a world on the cusp of transformation.

Hugh Lofting: A Short Biography

Hugh John Lofting, born 14 January 1886 in Maidenhead, Berkshire, England, is best known as the author of the beloved Doctor Dolittle series. A writer and illustrator with a vivid imagination, Lofting created a magical world where animals could speak and a kind-hearted doctor could understand them. His works remain timeless classics of children’s literature, celebrated for their humour, creativity, and underlying messages of compassion and respect for all living things.

Early Life and Education

Hugh Lofting was the sixth of six children born to John Brien Lofting and Elizabeth Agnes Gunning. His father was of Dutch ancestry, and the family lived in relative comfort in Maidenhead. Lofting’s early life was marked by a love of nature and animals, interests that would later inform his writing.

He was educated at Mount St Mary’s College, a Jesuit school in Derbyshire, known for its strict discipline and classical curriculum. After completing his schooling, Lofting studied civil engineering at the prestigious Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) in the United States, graduating in 1905. This practical education seemed at odds with his later career in literature but demonstrated Lofting’s diverse talents and intellectual curiosity.

Early Career and Travels

After completing his studies, Lofting embarked on a career as a civil engineer. He worked in Canada, Cuba, and West Africa, often in challenging and remote locations. These experiences exposed him to a variety of landscapes, cultures, and wildlife, broadening his worldview and deepening his appreciation for nature.

Lofting eventually settled in New York City, where he worked as an engineer and met his first wife, Flora Small. They married in 1912 and had two children, Colin and Elizabeth.

World War I and the Birth of Doctor Dolittle

In 1914, Lofting enlisted in the British Army during World War I, serving as a lieutenant in the Irish Guards. He was stationed in Flanders, where the horrors of trench warfare deeply affected him. While in the trenches, Lofting struggled with how to explain the brutal realities of war to his children. Instead of writing letters about the grim conditions, he began crafting whimsical, illustrated stories featuring Doctor Dolittle, a physician who could speak with animals.

The character of Doctor Dolittle emerged as an antidote to the violence and cruelty Lofting witnessed, offering a vision of kindness, understanding, and harmony with nature. These stories, initially intended solely for his children, would later form the basis of his literary career.

Literary Career

After the war, Lofting returned to his family and began refining and expanding the Doctor Dolittle stories. In 1920, he published The Story of Doctor Dolittle, which introduced readers to the gentle doctor and his animal friends, including Polynesia the parrot, Jip the dog, and Chee-Chee the monkey.

The book was an immediate success, praised for its creativity, humour, and richly detailed illustrations. It was followed by several sequels, including:

• The Voyages of Doctor Dolittle (1922): Winner of the Newbery Medal in 1923.
• Doctor Dolittle’s Post Office (1923): A tale of the doctor’s adventures as a postman for animals.
• Doctor Dolittle’s Circus (1924) and Doctor Dolittle’s Caravan (1926): Exploring the doctor’s foray into the world of entertainment.
• Doctor Dolittle’s Zoo (1925): A heartwarming account of the doctor creating a zoo for animals to visit.

The Doctor Dolittle series eventually grew to include twelve books, written between 1920 and 1952, and became one of the most beloved children’s series of the 20th century.

Themes and Style

Hugh Lofting’s works are distinguished by their:

1. Imagination: Lofting created a richly detailed world where animals had personalities, histories, and languages, brought to life through his vivid descriptions and illustrations.
2. Humour: His writing is filled with playful dialogue, amusing situations, and endearing characters, appealing to children and adults alike.
3. Compassion: Central to the series is a message of kindness and respect for animals, promoting a harmonious relationship between humans and nature.
4. Social Commentary: Beneath the light-hearted adventures, Lofting subtly critiqued human folly, colonial attitudes, and the exploitation of animals, making his stories thought-provoking as well as entertaining.

Later Life

Lofting’s wife, Flora, passed away in 1927, leaving him devastated. He later married Katherine Harrower Peters, with whom he had a third child, Christopher. After Katherine’s death in 1936, Lofting married for a third time, to Josephine Fricker.

Lofting moved between the United States and England throughout his later years, continuing to write and illustrate. Although his literary output slowed, his earlier works remained popular, earning him financial stability and enduring fame.

Death and Legacy

Hugh Lofting passed away on 26 September 1947 in Topanga, California, at the age of 61. He was buried in Killingsworth, Connecticut, where he had spent much of his later life.

Lofting’s Doctor Dolittle series has remained a cornerstone of children’s literature, celebrated for its charm, humour, and moral lessons. The books have been adapted into various forms, including stage plays, animated series, and films, the most famous being the 1967 musical film starring Rex Harrison and the 2020 adaptation featuring Robert Downey Jr.

Criticism and Modern Perspectives

While Hugh Lofting’s works are beloved, some aspects of the Doctor Dolittle series have drawn criticism in modern times for their depiction of race and colonialism. Early editions included stereotypes that reflect the attitudes of the time but are considered offensive today. Modern editions of the books have been revised to address these issues, ensuring the stories remain accessible to contemporary readers while preserving their core themes of compassion and curiosity.

Influence and Enduring Appeal

Hugh Lofting’s legacy lies in his ability to combine imagination, humour, and moral insight in a way that resonates with readers of all ages. His creation of Doctor Dolittle—a figure of empathy, wisdom, and kindness—continues to inspire children to care for animals and the natural world.

Lofting’s work set a standard for children’s literature that bridges entertainment and education, ensuring his place among the most cherished authors of his generation.

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