Arthur Train's 'His Children's Children' burst onto the American literary scene in 1923, immediately captivating readers and critics alike to become a national bestseller. Published during the heart of the Jazz Age, the novel tapped directly into the era's anxieties and fascinations, particularly concerning the changing moral landscape, the excesses of newfound wealth, and the perceived decline of traditional values. Its widespread popularity made it not just a successful book, but a cultural touchstone, sparking conversations about generational shifts and the future of American society as it rapidly modernized. The book's timely themes ensured its status as one of the most talked-about novels of the year, cementing its place at the top of bestseller lists.
What it is
'His Children's Children' offers a sweeping, multi-generational saga centered on the wealthy Kayne family of New York, providing a vivid social commentary on the moral decay Arthur Train observed in post-World War I America. The narrative traces the fortunes and moral dissolution of the family, from the austere patriarch, Peter Kayne, through his children and grandchildren. The novel particularly focuses on the younger generation, depicted as 'flappers' and 'lounge lizards' who embrace the hedonism of the Jazz Age—marked by speakeasies, illicit affairs, and a general disregard for the traditional moral codes. Train skillfully weaves a tapestry of societal change, using the Kayne family's struggles to explore themes of prohibition, sexual liberation, inherited wealth, and the clash between old money conservatism and new-era indulgence.
How it came to be
Arthur Train, a former district attorney and prolific author, drew heavily on his observations of American society and his legal background when crafting 'His Children's Children.' Having achieved success with legal thrillers and short stories, Train turned his critical eye to the moral shifts of the early 1920s. The inspiration likely stemmed from a widespread public discourse about the 'flapper generation' and the perceived breakdown of traditional values, topics that frequently appeared in contemporary media. Published by Charles Scribner's Sons, a prominent literary house, the novel benefited from a strong editorial hand and a publisher well-versed in promoting major American fiction. Train’s meticulous character development and narrative structure reflected his keen understanding of human nature and societal pressures, allowing him to create a compelling and timely critique.
How many it sold
'His Children's Children' proved to be an undeniable commercial triumph, achieving the remarkable distinction of being named the Publishers Weekly #2 Bestselling Novel of 1923. This designation indicates exceptionally high sales, likely placing its circulation well into the hundreds of thousands of copies within its initial year of publication. While precise sales figures from the era are often difficult to ascertain, its top-tier ranking among the year's most popular books underscores its widespread reach and appeal across the nation. Such success would have necessitated multiple print runs to keep up with demand, cementing its status as a commercial powerhouse and a significant financial success for both Arthur Train and Charles Scribner's Sons in the competitive post-war literary market.
Why it resonated
The novel resonated profoundly with the American public because it mirrored and articulated the very anxieties and excitements of the Jazz Age. Readers saw reflections of their own changing world in the Kayne family's moral dilemmas—the generational gap, the temptations of wealth, the impact of Prohibition, and the evolving roles of women. Train's portrayal of flappers and their carefree lifestyles, while often critical, also provided a fascinating, if cautionary, glimpse into a modernizing society. The book became a national talking point, fueling debates about morality and the future of American values. Its topicality and engagement with contemporary social issues ensured its immediate relevance, making it a powerful commentary on the spirit of the Roaring Twenties that deeply connected with a broad readership.
Impact today
Today, 'His Children's Children' remains a valuable literary artifact, offering a vivid time capsule of the early 1920s. While perhaps not as widely read as some other novels from the era, it holds significant historical and sociological importance, providing insight into the cultural anxieties and moral debates of the Jazz Age. Its themes of generational conflict, the corrupting influence of wealth, and societal change continue to be relevant, albeit in different contexts. The novel was quickly adapted into a successful film in 1923, further solidifying its immediate cultural footprint. It stands as a testament to Arthur Train's keen observational skills and his ability to capture the zeitgeist, influencing how literary historians understand the social and moral landscape of post-World War I America.
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