Bones and I : $b or, the skeleton at home

"Bones and I: or, The Skeleton at Home" by G. J. Whyte-Melville is a novel written in the late 19th century. The story unfolds in London, where the protagonist shares his solitary life with a skeleton named "Bones," who serves as both a companion and a sounding board for the narrator’s reflections on life, society, and existence. The narrative combines elements of humor, philosophy, and social commentary through the lens of this peculiar relationship. The opening of the novel introduces the narrator's lonely life in a secluded part of London, where he has brought home the skeleton to alleviate his isolation. He describes his surroundings and his thoughts on solitude, human nature, and the concept of "waste" in life. The presence of Bones prompts philosophical discussions that delve into existential themes, inviting readers to ponder the value of life, relationships, and the inevitability of suffering. The characters, particularly the introspective narrator and his articulate skeleton, engage in lively dialogues that set the stage for an exploration of deeper societal issues, making the opening both engaging and thought-provoking. (This is an automatically generated summary.)

George John Whyte-Melville was a Scottish novelist much concerned with field sports, and also a poet. He took a break in the mid-1850s to serve as an officer of Turkish irregular cavalry in the Crimean War.