The seventh noon examines the intersection of despair, philosophical inquiry, and the human need for purpose. The narrative follows a character caught between resignation and the final effort to assign meaning to a life that feels aimless. His decision to live one week without obligation becomes a vehicle for confronting the depth of emotional and intellectual exhaustion brought on by societal expectations and internal conflict. The story raises questions about the autonomy of choice, especially in relation to mortality, while revealing how even temporary liberation can reshape one's perception of self and others. The presence of a mysterious woman adds dimension to this brief reprieve, suggesting that connection and uncertainty can reignite curiosity about existence. As the protagonist moves through days no longer tethered to outcome or permanence, the novel offers a meditation on value the value of time, of chance encounters, and of choosing to engage with life even when disillusioned. This temporary suspension of the future becomes a lens through which the meaning of living is more clearly seen.
Frederick Orin Bartlett was an American author active during the early 20th century, recognized for his contributions to adventure and introspective fiction. Born on 2 July 1876, Bartlett wrote novels that often merged external exploration with internal transformation, crafting narratives that explored both physical landscapes and emotional terrains. One of his best-known works, The Web of the Golden Spider (1909), is a Lost Race novel set in the Andes, where ancient treasures and their mysterious guardians create a setting of intrigue and danger. While adventure forms a strong core of his writing, Bartlett also delved into psychological and moral complexity in works such as The Seventh Noon and The Prodigal Pro Tem, which examine identity, despair, and ethical dilemmas. His writing reflects a broad range of human experience, from dramatic action to quiet reflection. Bartlett's ability to span genres with depth and nuance made his work resonate with readers seeking both escapism and insight. He died on 4 November 1945 at the age of 69.