Under - The Volcano

is a modernist novel by British author Malcolm Lowry , first published in 1947 . Often cited as one of the greatest literary works of the 20th century, it chronicles the final day in the life of Geoffrey Firmin , an alcoholic former British consul living in the Mexican town of Quauhnahuac (based on Cuernavaca). Plot Overview

The narrative is set on the in November 1938. It follows the Consul as he descends into a mescal-fueled bender, coinciding with the unexpected return of his estranged wife, Yvonne , who hopes to save their marriage. The story is also populated by his half-brother, Hugh , and his friend Jacques Laruelle , both former lovers of Yvonne. Their collective attempts to help Geoffrey fail as he spirals toward a tragic end, ultimately being murdered by local vigilantes and discarded in a ravine. Key Themes & Symbols Under The Volcano by Malcolm Lowry - Triumph Of The Now Under the Volcano