The Ragged Edge: A Tale of Ward Life & Politics

A novel written in the early 20th century. The book delves into the intertwined lives of its characters against a backdrop of urban politics and social challenges, primarily focusing on young Larry Murphy and his complex relationships with his family and community. Themes of legacy, class struggle, and moral quandaries dominate the narrative as it unfolds in a lively but harsh urban environment. The beginning of the novel introduces readers to the gritty realities of city life through Larry Murphy and his interaction with various characters, including his friend Johnnie Kerrigan and the porters in a dilapidated part of town. Following the discussions surrounding an old woman’s will and the underhanded dealings of the Motor Traction Company, we witness Larry's complicated feelings about his estranged grandfather, Larry Murphy Sr., who lies on his deathbed. The chapter sets up a tense atmosphere of rising conflict between personal desire and economic pressures, hinting at the deeper narratives of loyalty and redemption that will unravel as the story progresses.