Genius

Published in 1915, 'Genius' is Theodore Dreiser's fifth novel and his most autobiographical work. It follows the life of Eugene Witla, a painter navigating the challenges of love, fidelity, and artistic ambition in early 20th-century America. Divided into three sections — 'Youth,' 'Struggle,' and 'Revolt' — the novel explores Witla's tumultuous relationships, particularly with his wife Angela Blue and his mistress Suzanne Dale. Despite its length and depth, Dreiser felt the novel was underappreciated, reflecting his candid portrayal of human desires and societal expectations.