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Harmer John; An Unworldly Story

Harmer John; An Unworldly Story

By: Hugh Walpole
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In Hjalmar Johansons captivating 1926 novel, we meet Harmer John, a young, idealistic Swedish bodybuilder drawn to the enchanting cathedral town of Polchester. Simplified by the locals, his name becomes a symbol of hope and transformation. Envisioning a healthier, more beautiful community, Harmer John opens a gym to inspire the townsfolk to embrace fitness and well-being. However, his ambitious dreams clash with the interests of greedy slumlords who profit from the impoverished residents. As he faces xenophobia, jealousy, and hostility, Harmer John emerges as a modern-day Francis of Assisi—a naïve holy man striving against a world steeped in selfishness. This poignant tale reflects the timeless struggle between idealism and the harsh realities of society. - Summary by David WalesCopyright Fiction Classics Hygiene & Healthy Living Social Sciences
Episodes
  • 025 - Chapter 6 Miss Midgeley Revisits
    Feb 20 2026
    In Hjalmar Johansons captivating 1926 novel, we meet Harmer John, a young, idealistic Swedish bodybuilder drawn to the enchanting cathedral town of Polchester. Simplified by the locals, his name becomes a symbol of hope and transformation. Envisioning a healthier, more beautiful community, Harmer John opens a gym to inspire the townsfolk to embrace fitness and well-being. However, his ambitious dreams clash with the interests of greedy slumlords who profit from the impoverished residents. As he faces xenophobia, jealousy, and hostility, Harmer John emerges as a modern-day Francis of Assisi—a naïve holy man striving against a world steeped in selfishness. This poignant tale reflects the timeless struggle between idealism and the harsh realities of society. - Summary by David Wales
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    22 mins
  • 024 - Chapter 5 October 7 Life And Death
    Feb 20 2026
    In Hjalmar Johansons captivating 1926 novel, we meet Harmer John, a young, idealistic Swedish bodybuilder drawn to the enchanting cathedral town of Polchester. Simplified by the locals, his name becomes a symbol of hope and transformation. Envisioning a healthier, more beautiful community, Harmer John opens a gym to inspire the townsfolk to embrace fitness and well-being. However, his ambitious dreams clash with the interests of greedy slumlords who profit from the impoverished residents. As he faces xenophobia, jealousy, and hostility, Harmer John emerges as a modern-day Francis of Assisi—a naïve holy man striving against a world steeped in selfishness. This poignant tale reflects the timeless struggle between idealism and the harsh realities of society. - Summary by David Wales
    Show More Show Less
    19 mins
  • 023 - Chapter 4 October 7 On The Hill
    Feb 20 2026
    In Hjalmar Johansons captivating 1926 novel, we meet Harmer John, a young, idealistic Swedish bodybuilder drawn to the enchanting cathedral town of Polchester. Simplified by the locals, his name becomes a symbol of hope and transformation. Envisioning a healthier, more beautiful community, Harmer John opens a gym to inspire the townsfolk to embrace fitness and well-being. However, his ambitious dreams clash with the interests of greedy slumlords who profit from the impoverished residents. As he faces xenophobia, jealousy, and hostility, Harmer John emerges as a modern-day Francis of Assisi—a naïve holy man striving against a world steeped in selfishness. This poignant tale reflects the timeless struggle between idealism and the harsh realities of society. - Summary by David Wales
    Show More Show Less
    24 mins
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