"Doctor Fischer of Geneva or The Bomb Party" is a novel by Graham Greene that explores themes of greed, cruelty, and human nature. The story is narrated by Alfred Jones, a British widower who works as a translator in Geneva. He marries Anna-Luise, the daughter of the wealthy and enigmatic Doctor Fischer.
Doctor Fischer is known for his extravagant and sinister parties, where he subjects his wealthy guests to humiliating and morally degrading games to test the limits of their greed. These guests, whom he calls "Toads," endure these demeaning experiences for the chance to win lavish prizes. Despite his contempt for his guests, Fischer is fascinated by their willingness to debase themselves for money.
Jones, initially skeptical and repulsed by Fischer's behavior, gets reluctantly drawn into his world. The climax of the novel comes when Jones is invited to one of Fischer's infamous parties, where he faces a moral dilemma and must decide whether to participate in Fischer's cruel game.
The novel critiques the corrupting influence of wealth and the extent to which people will compromise their dignity for financial gain. It also examines personal integrity and the power dynamics between individuals driven by different motivations.
