RANDOM JOTTINGS


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"With the intention of making a suitable match, Undine Spragg and her parents move to New York where her youthful, radiant beauty and ruthless ambition prove an irresistible force.  Here Edith Wharton dissects the traditions, pretensions and prohibitions of American and European society – both the ostentatious glitter of the nouveau riche and the faded grandeur of the upper classes"

Painting is "Looking at Drawings" Adolfo Belimbau 1854.

Every single book of Edith Wharton is designated One of My Favourites and these now encompass nearly all her output, but this particular title is near the top of the list…

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3 responses to “Happy Birthday Virago 4”

  1. Elaine Avatar

    Well, I bow to the inevitable and will now hunt out Sarah Orne Jewett. I have heard of her, vaguely, but know nothing so thank you for the recommendation. Wonder if Virago have any of hers? Alibris, Amazon here I come!
    Yes I have read a bit about her house and library but am not totally up to date with what is going on. Google here I come…

  2. sherry Avatar
    sherry

    I have always loved Edith Wharton, but she is an acquired taste for many. Have you heard about the controversy surrounding her house in Massachusetts, on the verge of bankruptcy? Her library?
    Also, I heartily second Susan’s comments on Sarah Orne Jewett. Sarah’s settings could not be more dissimilar from Edith’s, but you will love her as well.

  3. Susan Balée Avatar
    Susan Balée

    Many people who love Wharton have missed a contemporary of hers who is a beautiful, atmospheric writer — and whose tales about rugged New England country people are far better than Wharton’s (in my opinion dire) “Ethan Frome.” I urge all who have never picked it up to check out Sara Orne Jewett’s “The Country of the Pointed Firs.” You will love it and it will make you want to visit Maine!
    Just droppin’ in to recommend, as I’ve found so many great recs in these pages….

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