The Fruit of the Tree

The Fruit of the Tree, published in 1907 by Edith Wharton, is a psychological novel set against the backdrop of the early 20th-century textile industry. It follows John Amherst, an idealistic assistant manager at Westmore Mills, as he grapples with the harsh realities of labor conditions and his commitment to reform. The narrative explores complex themes of social justice, personal responsibility, and the impact of industrial relations on personal lives, particularly through the intertwined fates of Amherst, his wife Bessy, and her friend Justine. The novel's candid treatment of issues such as drug addiction, divorce, and second marriages was considered controversial for its time.