Ethan Frome and Summer : Book Review

"Ethan Frome and Summer" is a captivating collection of two novellas penned by the renowned author Edith Wharton. The first novella, "Ethan Frome," unfolds a tragic tale set in the fictional town of Starkfield, Massachusetts. It revolves around the protagonist, Ethan Frome, trapped in a loveless marriage to his sickly and demanding wife, Zeena. However, the arrival of Zeena's cousin, Mattie Silver, shakes the foundations of their monotonous existence, leading to devastating consequences.

Wharton's mastery of storytelling shines through her depiction of the harsh and desolate environment of Starkfield, perfectly mirroring the emotional lives of its inhabitants. Her vivid descriptions transport readers to the wintry landscape, evoking a profound sense of isolation and desolation experienced by Ethan. This poignant narrative greatly explores themes of love, duty, sacrifice, and the tragic aftermath of unfulfilled desires.

The second novella, "Summer," follows the journey of a young woman named Charity Royall in the fictional town of North Dormer, a conservative community in New England. Charity's life takes an unforeseen turn with the arrival of Lucius Harney, a sophisticated and affluent man. Their encounter sparks a passionate affair that challenges Charity's perception of herself and her place in society.

Wharton's portrayal of Charity's journey into adulthood and self-discovery is both captivating and thought-provoking. The author deeply delves into the constraints imposed by societal expectations and limited opportunities for women during that era. Furthermore, she skillfully explores complex themes of social class, desire, and the quest for identity.

Overall, "Ethan Frome and Summer" beautifully displays Edith Wharton's exceptional talent for storytelling. The novellas vividly depict early 20th-century New England society, delving into the struggles faced by individuals trapped in oppressive environments. Wharton's ability to capture the intricate emotions of her characters, coupled with her evocative descriptions, make this collection an absolute must-read for lovers of classic literature.

What are readers saying?

Ethan Frome, penned by Edith Wharton, is a timeless novel that has garnered a diverse range of reactions from readers. With over 240,000 ratings, it is clear that this book has left a lasting impression.

Some reviewers lauded Wharton's skill in creating a haunting and atmospheric setting in the town of Starkfield, Massachusetts. They were captivated by the pervasive sense of desolation and isolation, which acted as a metaphor for the characters' struggles. Wharton's vivid descriptions were commended for their ability to transport readers into the wintry landscape.

However, there were readers who found the story excessively somber and heavy-handed. They felt that the constant bleakness overshadowed the plot and character development. Some reviewers struggled to relate or connect with the characters, finding them cold and lacking depth. Consequently, they failed to emotionally invest in the story.

The novel's structure, which includes a frame narrative, received mixed feedback from reviewers. While some appreciated the layers of storytelling and the different perspectives it offered, others found it distracting and perplexing. The narrative flips between past and present, causing some readers to feel a disruption in the story's flow.

Despite these conflicting viewpoints, many readers praised Wharton's exploration of themes such as duty, sacrifice, and the societal constraints of the time. The novel's examination of the human condition and the repercussions of one's choices struck a chord with certain reviewers, leaving a lasting impact on them.

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