Prelude: Beverley Nichols

A semi-autobiographical novel follows the early life, artistic awakening, and boarding school experiences of  sensitive young Paul Trevelyan.  He has a close bond with his mother but relatives view his artistic temperament and love for music as overly delicate. He transitions from the safety of home into the rigid, often harsh traditions of an English public school yet amid the loneliness and rough camaraderie of school life, Paul discovers his profound talent for the piano and the music of Chopin, which helps him navigate his emerging identity and find acceptance.  Nichols' first book published in 1920.