The Abysmal Brute

About “The Abysmal Brute”

"The Abysmal Brute" is a 1913 novel by Jack London. It follows Pat Glendon, a young man who has never drunk alcohol or smoked tobacco. He loves nature, fears cities, and is shy around women, but he is also an excellent fighter. Sam Stubener, a cynical boxing manager, is impressed by Pat’s athletic ability and takes him to San Francisco to compete in the heavyweight division. The story explores the clash between natural grace and worldly violence, set in a time before sports dominated American culture. As Pat trains and faces champions, he also battles for the affection of a woman and the integrity of boxing, which his fights reveal to be corrupt.