News From Nowhere
William Morris
Read by Elizabeth Klett
News from Nowhere (1890) is a classic work combining utopian socialism and soft science fiction written by the artist, designer and socialist pioneer William Morris. In the book, the narrator, William Guest, falls asleep after returning from a meeting of the Socialist League and awakes to find himself in a future society based on common ownership and democratic control of the means of production. In this society there is no private property, no big cities, no authority, no monetary system, no divorce, no courts, no prisons, and no class systems. This agrarian society functions simply because the people find pleasure in nature, and therefore they find pleasure in their work. In the novel, Morris tackles one of the most common criticisms of socialism; the supposed lack of incentive to work in a communistic society. Morris' response is that all work should be creative and pleasurable. (Summary by Wikipedia) (7 hr 24 min)
Chapters
Reviews
wyldfyre
Title: "News from Nowhere: A Captivating Journey through Utopia's Unforeseen Reality" Review: "News from Nowhere" by William Morris is an enthralling novel that delves into the realm of utopian ideals, exploring the stark contrast between the hopes people hold for the future and the actuality of their dreams realized. This thought-provoking narrative takes readers on a captivating journey into a communistic world, inviting them to contemplate the intricacies of societal transformation. Set in the late 19th century, the story follows the protagonist, William Guest, as he awakens in a future London transformed into a harmonious and egalitarian society. Morris masterfully crafts a utopian world where individualism and capitalism have given way to a communal spirit and shared resources. Through vivid descriptions and engaging dialogues, the author depicts an idyllic world that tantalizes the imagination and sparks curiosity. What truly sets "News from Nowhere" apart is its exploration of the dichotomy between utopian aspirations and the reality of their implementation. As Guest discovers the inner workings of this new society, he grapples with the discrepancies between the utopia he had envisioned and the subtle imperfections that have emerged. Morris invites readers to reflect on the complexities of creating a truly harmonious world, challenging their preconceived notions about the nature of progress and idealism. The novel's strength lies in its ability to weave together philosophical musings with engaging storytelling. Morris skillfully raises profound questions about human nature, the value of work, and the role of technology in shaping a utopian society. Through Guest's encounters with various characters and his exploration of the transformed landscape, readers are encouraged to ponder the possibilities and limitations of utopia, and the unforeseen consequences that arise from societal transformations. "News from Nowhere" is an intellectually stimulating read that offers a refreshing perspective on utopian aspirations. Morris' intricate portrayal of a communistic world and his exploration of the gap between idealism and reality make this book a captivating and thought-provoking journey. It serves as a reminder that the path to a better future is not without challenges and trade-offs, urging readers to critically examine their own hopes and dreams for a transformed world.
News From Nowhere
TheBookworm
The political roots of the Arts and Crafts movement are clearly shown in Morris' utopian vision of a society that has left commercialism and private property behind and in which art is embodied in craftsmanship. Although I have always admired Morris' design work, I had found his stylised romances a bit of a slog. So I was happily suprised to find that NFN (1890) is lively and well executed. It's a far easier read than Bellamy's famous 1887 yawner "Looking Backward." As usual, Elizabeth Klett does an outstanding job of interpreting the written word with perfect enunciation and 99% accuracy in pronouncing those arcane English place names. Many thanks for your work, Gloriana. It kept me sane last whilst burning the remains of many dinosaurs (i.e., driving) the damned M1 between here and Luton last week. TheBookworm (Manchester, UK)
Graham Widmer
Very well read. A very intelligent and pleasant vision. While this almost isn't a novel in the traditional sense, the prose is very vivid and it feels sincere. Unlike some other reviewers, I don't think that the world this book describes is impossible, merely unlikely. It would require a shift in humans rather than government, though Morris describes the change of government as the catalyst for this change in humanity. And why not? Human nature has shifted before. All that aside, I believe this book is best described as an anti-industrial revolution work, rather than a utopian one. I enjoyed it.
tangled_tingle
A LibriVox Listener
A hopeful vision of the past, refreshingly brought to life in today's world. Evoking a more beautiful Earth our hearts know *is* possible. The reader too is wonderful. And I, being quite particular in the reader.
Required reading for anyone with a social conscience
JMcK
Naive in places & clearly of its time but nevertheless an important critique of capitalism and an elegant vision of a socialist society. Elizabeth Klett’s narration is flawless.
Robert Kaufman
Wonderful depiction of what life could be. We could all use a ray of hope like that given to Guest.
love it. I always gave though for years. This was a re-read.
Ponee59
Erynuin
Pretty boring in the middle. Poor character development.