The Dark Flower has a universal theme—the positive powers and the disruptive effects of sexuality and desire. It is the story of Mark Lennan and his infatuation, adulterous affair, conventional marriage and obsession for a younger woman. The author drew on his own experiences for much of the substance of his work and was truly a free thinker with regard to the relationship between the sexes. Despite the moral debate Galsworthy's novel has enormous narrative strength which sweeps the listener along from start to finish.