â Catholic Review: 4/5 E. M. Forsterâs Howards End is a sophisticated 1910 novel about three familiesâthe intellectual Schlegels, wealthy Wilcoxes, and struggling Bastsâwhose lives become intertwined through friendship, marriage, inheritance, class, and betrayal. From a Catholic perspective, the novel has considerable moral interest. Forster contrasts materialism with the interior life, and repeatedly asks whether wealth, social position, and worldly success are enough to constitute a good life. The emphasis on human connection, responsibility toward the vulnerable, conscience, family, and the search for meaning gives the novel substantial moral depth. However, this is not a Catholic novel. Forster's spirituality is unconventional and humanistic rather than grounded in Christian doctrine. The book also contains adultery, an illegitimate pregnancy, and morally complicated attitudes toward sexuality. Its famous ideal of âOnly connectâ is ultimately more philosophical and humanistic than explicitly Christian. Catholic verdict: A brilliant examination of conscience, class, materialism, family, and human responsibilityâwith much to appreciate morally, even though its spiritual outlook falls outside orthodox Catholic Christianity.