
What Not
'What Not' Summary
"What Not" by Rose Macaulay is a thought-provoking novel set in a post-World War I society that delves into social engineering and the role of the government in shaping human behavior. The story revolves around a government department, also called "What Not," tasked with overseeing and regulating the use of language and behavior to influence society positively.
The main character, Kitty Grammont, works at the department and finds herself in a moral and philosophical struggle as she navigates the politics of language regulation. The central conflict lies in the tension between societal improvement, as perceived by the government, and personal freedoms. As the story progresses, Kitty grapples with her own beliefs and the external pressures of the society she lives in.
Macaulay's writing style is a blend of wit and sharp social commentary. She uses the narrative to explore the impact of controlling language and behavior on individual autonomy and the collective consciousness of society. The plot takes unexpected turns, revealing the complexities and contradictions inherent in attempting to engineer a utopian society.
Overall, "What Not" is a captivating exploration of the delicate balance between societal control and personal liberties, leaving readers pondering the consequences of tampering with fundamental aspects of human expression and interaction.
Book Details
Language
EnglishOriginal Language
EnglishPublished In
1918Genre/Category
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Authors

Rose Macaulay
United Kingdom
Rose Macaulay was an English novelist, poet, essayist, critic, biographer, and humorist. She was born in Rugby, Warwickshire, in 1881. Macaulay was educated at Oxford High School and Girton College, C...
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