The Cords of Vanity

Written by James Branch Cabell, The Cords of Vanity presents a comedy, fiction first published in 1920. The work draws its energy from human motives, relationships, conflict, and the consequences of choice, giving James Branch Cabell room to explore how people respond to pressure, desire, and change. As part of a series, the book also contributes to a larger imaginative or narrative design while retaining its own identity. The reading experience is shaped by a character-centered narrative style that rewards attention to voice, structure, and perspective. At roughly 88,909 words with a fairly easy reading profile, it offers a reading commitment that is easy to judge before beginning while still leaving room for close attention. Beyond its immediate story or argument, the book matters for its capacity to make unfamiliar lives and difficult choices emotionally legible. Its strongest appeal lies in the meeting of human motives and character-centered narrative style, giving the book both immediate character and lasting interest.