The Figure in the Carpet. A Short Story by Henry James

"The Figure in the Carpet" by Henry James is a story about the quest for hidden meaning within an author's work. It follows a literary critic and his obsessive attempt to uncover a secret, profound message that an acclaimed author, Hugh Vereker, claims is woven like a figure in the carpet through all his writings. Despite Vereker's hint, the critic, along with his friends and colleagues, finds himself unable to decipher the elusive meaning, leading to a deepening mystery and fascination with the supposed secret. The pursuit of the figure becomes a consuming passion for those involved, affecting personal relationships and professional reputations.