The Man Who Died

Originally titled The Escaped C**k, this short novella was published as The Man Who Died, framing the intended allegorical treatment of Christ’s resurrection. At least, that’s the starting point, allowing Lawrence to create a character to overcomes death so that he can preach not about the sanctity of heaven, but about the miracles of the real world. In such a way, the story outlines a more materialist approach to self-fulfilment, centred on the now rather than on the promise of a future after death. For Lawrence, with his ever-present health issues, such an approach must have been essential for his well-being, but perhaps also it gives some indication of a move away from religion.