Time and the Hour

Time and the Hour by Howard Spring is a substantial family and social drama that explores themes of identity, legitimacy, morality, love, and political upheaval in the years leading up to the Second World War. Set largely in Yorkshire, around the Bradford area, the novel follows the consequences of a long-hidden family secret as a young man discovers the truth about his parentage. Against this personal story Spring weaves a broader picture of British society during the inter-war years, including the rise of fascism in Europe, the plight of refugees, journalism, and the growing shadow of war. Characteristically for Spring, the novel combines strong storytelling with an examination of how historical events affect ordinary lives. The title is taken from a line in Shakespeare's Macbeth.