Conrad is best known for the writings of his middle period, which ranges from approximately 1899 to 1911. This period was Conrad's most productive and has generally been seen as comprising his most artistically accomplished works. Certainly, he wrote his most frequently read and frequently studied works during this period.

“Youth” and Two Other Stories

“Youth” is one of Conrad's best short stories and is the first of four tales (“Youth,” “Heart of Darkness,” Lord Jim, and Chance) in which Charlie Marlow serves as the chief narrator. The story is a frame narrative in which Marlow tells his tale to several listeners, one of whom records the tale, acting as frame narrator. Marlow tells his listeners about an experience he had some twenty years earlier. He had just joined the crew as second mate of the Judea, bound for Bankok with a cargo of coal. From the outset, the journey is beset with difficulties. They leave London for Newcastle to collect their cargo but encounter bad weather and arrive late. More delays occur, including the Judea being hit by another vessel. Finally, setting off some three months after leaving London, the Judea again encounters bad weather in the English Channel and begins leaking, forcing yet another delay of several months while they await repairs. After the repairs are completed, the Judea finally sets off for its original destination. The ship encounters no more problems until it gets near Java Head, when the crew discovers a fire in the cargo hold.