'Prelude To Adventure' Summary

Olva Dune, a young man studying at Cambridge University, commits a murder, an act that shatters his life and plunges him into a profound spiritual crisis. At the moment of the crime, he feels an undeniable presence of God, a sensation both terrifying and comforting. This encounter triggers a complex journey of self-discovery and a relentless pursuit by a force he cannot escape - the persistent love of God. The novel, deeply influenced by Francis Thompson's poem "The Hound of Heaven," portrays Olva's struggle with guilt, fear, and his yearning for redemption. His inner turmoil becomes a battleground between his own desires and the relentless pursuit of divine love. He flees from this love, seeking refuge in the mundane distractions of life, but his escape proves futile. The novel traces Olva's journey through the landscapes of Cornwall, symbolizing the external and internal conflicts he faces. Ultimately, 'Prelude to Adventure' explores the complexities of human nature, the power of faith, and the transformative nature of love, offering a profound meditation on the relationship between man and God.