A masterpiece of twentieth-century writing, Heart of Darkness explores the workings of consciousness as well as the grim realities of imperialism.
Passing the time while he and his shipmates wait for the tide to turn, Marlow, a seaman, tells of his journey up the Congo, a journey in search of ivory, wealth and power. His tale is dominated by the distant but fascinating figure of Kurtz; worshipped and feared by invaders and natives alike, he is a paradox - beloved, messianic, yet bizarre and dangerous. Marlow comes to be obsessed by Kurtz, and is drawn inexorably toward him and his terrible fate... From the back cover