TEHRAN- “The Mystery of Edwin Drood” by the English author Charles Dickens has recently been published in Persian.

Translated by Lida Tarzi, the book has been published by Neyestan Publications in Tehran.

"The Mystery of Edwin Drood" is an unfinished novel written by Dickens. It is one of Dickens' last works, as he tragically passed away before completing it, leaving many readers and literary scholars intrigued by the unresolved plotlines and mysteries that reside within its pages.

The novel is set in the small English town of Cloisterham and centers around the disappearance of its eponymous character, Edwin Drood. Edwin is a young man engaged to the beautiful Rosa Bud, though their relationship is somewhat complicated as they were betrothed by their deceased parents. The novel also introduces several other significant characters, such as John Jasper, Edwin's uncle and choirmaster, and Rosa Bud's guardian, who secretly harbors an unrequited love for her. 

The mystery surrounding Edwin's disappearance begins to unravel when he and his fiancée Rosa have a private conversation, which sparks the interest of Jasper. He becomes increasingly obsessed with Rosa and develops a dark and sinister side, leading readers to question his possible involvement in Edwin's vanishing. The novel delves into the depths of Jasper's psyche, his opium addiction, and his hidden desires, creating a rich, psychological backdrop for the central mystery.

To further deepen the intrigue, Dickens introduces a range of eccentric characters, such as Durdles, a stonemason known for his peculiar habits, and Deputy, a bumbling and highly superstitious police officer. These characters add a touch of whimsy and comic relief to the narrative, while also potentially holding some vital clues to the ultimate resolution of Edwin's disappearance.

Despite Dickens' untimely death, numerous theories and speculations have arisen about the intended ending of "The Mystery of Edwin Drood." Some believe that Dickens planned to reveal Jasper as the culprit, given his increasing obsession with Rosa and the hints of violence in his character. Others speculate that Dickens intended a more complex ending, featuring multiple antagonists as part of a grand conspiracy.

In recent times, several authors and scholars have attempted to complete the novel, offering their own versions of what Dickens may have intended. These adaptations have allowed readers to explore possible endings to the mystery, each with its unique interpretations and resolutions.

"The Mystery of Edwin Drood" stands as both a testament to Dickens' skill as a writer and an enigmatic reminder of his unfinished masterpiece. It remains a treasured piece of literature, keeping readers engaged with its tantalizing mysteries and enticing them to unravel the secrets concealed within its pages for years to come.

SAB/