Super Short Summary

In Martin Eden by Jack London, a young sailor named Martin Eden saves upper-class Arthur Morse and is introduced to Arthur's cultured world and his sister, Ruth, whom Martin falls in love with. Determined to improve himself for Ruth, Martin self-educates and pursues a writing career but faces significant challenges and rejection. Despite eventual literary success, Martin is disillusioned with fame and struggles with existential despair. The novel examines themes of social class, education, and the emptiness of fame and includes depictions of depression and suicide.