Plagiarism Through Time (Press, 5 March 1988)

In his review published on 5 March 1988, Ken Strongman lauds Peter Ackroyd's novel "Chatterton," released by Hamish Hamilton in 1987. Strongman commends the book as an extraordinary achievement, claiming it surpasses Ackroyd's previously acclaimed work, "Hawksmoor." He urges even those who typically do not purchase novels to make an exception for this one, suggesting it is a must-read for the year. "Chatterton" delves into the theme of plagiarism, presenting a narrative that weaves between the eighteenth century and the contemporary world of twentieth-century London. The story follows Thomas Chatterton, a young poet involved in literary deceit, alongside Charles Wychwood, a poet navigating his own challenges in modern society. The plot is further complicated by events in the nineteenth century, illustrating how various characters are intertwined through a network of Bristolian booksellers. Central to the story is a series of manuscripts given to Wychwood, allegedly authored by Chatterton. These works suggest that Chatterton, even after his death, contributed to a body of poetry attributed to other notable figures, including Lord Byron. The motivations and subplots often stem from underlying themes of jealousy, with complex character relationships driving the narrative forward. Wychwood’s relentless pursuit of the truth about Chatterton is marked by a personal struggle with an unexplained illness. He is aided in his quest by a librarian friend who has his own romantic entanglements and an intriguing character named Harriet Scrope. Scrope, an older novelist and a self-proclaimed plagiarist, emerges as a memorable figure, described as amusing yet grotesque, and embodies a charmingly outrageous personality reminiscent of Anthony Powell's character Widmerpool. The novel is noted for its rich characterisation and intricate plotting, featuring layers of mysteries that unfold throughout the narrative. Ackroyd's mastery of language provides insightful reflections on the human condition, prompting readers to ponder his keen observations of life as they progress through the story. Strongman concludes that reading "Chatterton" undoubtedly enriches the reader’s experience, hinting at the notion that perhaps Chatterton himself might have penned the review in some earlier time. Overall, Strongman posits that Ackroyd is a formidable writer whose impact on literature is likely to endure.

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