MAURICE, by E.M. Forster (1879-1970), written around 1913, is a homosexual love story. Maurice Hall and Clive Durham first meet at University. The trials and tribulations of their relationship is relatively short lived due to Clive’s fear of the oppressive laws (at that time) against such liaisons. Their final break can be attributedto the prosecution and imprisonment of a friend trapped by an ‘agent provocateur’. The period is not far removed from the time of the Oscar Wilde’s trial. Alec Scudder, Clive’s under-game keeper, although far removed socially, nevertheless develops a great love for Clive’s ex lover and contrives a very unorthodox, albeit successful way of demonstrating it. At this point the romance between Maurice andAlec begins. Through misunderstanding, their relationship stalls, with Alec deciding to emigrate to Argentina with his brother. The power of love, however, imposes a change of heart, and Alec’s ship sails without him. They are re-united in the boat-house onClive Durham’s Estate. Foster’s story effectively ends here and mine begins.

MAURICE - A NEW BEGINNING, begins in the same boat-house. It is from here that Maurice and Alec will embark on their romantic and historic journey. Clive’s butler, George Simcox, a witness to their liaison, makes his entrance. He, and partnerJohn, become involved in the lovers progress. An emotional scene involving Maurice’s estranged sister, Ada, offers the chance of reconciliation. Maurice’s mother experiences difficulty in coming to terms with the friendship of her son with a boy from a working class family. During this time, Clive’s marriage comes under great stress but an opportunity for change finally presents itself. Clive’s political ambitions are of little merit. Robert, the estranged son of a vicar, enters the story, beginning with his close encounter with the law…

• Size: A4 (210x297mm)

• 92 Pages

• ISBN 978-1-905912-28-5