Golding was inspired by the view of Salisbury cathedral from his room in the school
where he was a teacher.
I read this long ago and have been recommending it ever since because the aspect
of the book which caught my attention was the travails of medieval builders and
masons. However it's really about obsession and the toll it takes. Rated by some as
one of his best books; others have found it hard going.
We have just seen the 2006 film, 'The Prestige', on the same topic. I think we all
have our obsessions, small or large so be prepared for a bit of a
confessional.
Library has 6 copies , I have a spare.