Novellas and Other Writings: Madame de Treymes / Ethan Frome / Summer / Old New York / The Mother’s Recompense / A Backward Glance : Book Review

"Novellas and Other Writings" by Edith Wharton is a captivating collection of her lesser-known works that truly highlights her exceptional storytelling skills and literary craftsmanship. Within its pages, readers will find four novellas, "Madame de Treymes," "Ethan Frome," "Summer," and "Old New York," alongside a selection of shorter stories and essays.

In "Madame de Treymes," Wharton skillfully delves into the intricate complexities of marriage and the weight of social expectations through the eyes of the American protagonist, John Durham, who finds himself entangled in a passionate love affair in Paris. The novella brilliantly captures the delicate balance between duty and desire, and Wharton's astute observations on the constraints imposed by society add depth to the story.

Among the novellas in this collection, "Ethan Frome" stands out as the most renowned and haunting tale. Set in a fictional New England town, Wharton portrays the quiet desperation and tragic choices made by her characters, painting a poignant picture of love, sacrifice, and the repercussions of unfulfilled desires. This heart-wrenching story lingers in the reader's mind long after turning the last page.

Contrasting the melancholic tone of "Ethan Frome," "Summer" offers a narrative that explores the theme of sexual awakening in a conservative society. Wharton fearlessly challenges societal norms, delving into the power dynamics and consequences of sexual relationships. Her masterful prose adds depth to the story, making it both thought-provoking and captivating.

Lastly, in "Old New York," Wharton presents a series of interconnected stories set in the Gilded Age, exposing the lives of wealthy New Yorkers as they grapple with societal expectations, love, and personal fulfillment. Wharton's acute observations of class and society during this period bring these tales to life, each offering a unique perspective on the struggles faced by individuals of privilege.

What are readers saying?

Readers have had a varied response to Edith Wharton's book "Novellas and Other Writings." This collection contains three novellas: "Ethan Frome," "Summer," and "Bunner Sisters," along with some shorter works. Overall, Wharton's writing style and her talent for creating captivating characters drew praise from readers.

Among the novellas, "Ethan Frome" emerged as the standout for many reviewers. They admired Wharton's ability to vividly depict the desolate New England town and the ill-fated love affair between the main characters. The emotional depth of the story resonated strongly with readers.

On the other hand, some readers found "Summer" disappointing in comparison to Wharton's other works. They considered the plot to be predictable and felt the characters were not as well-developed. However, others viewed the novella as a captivating exploration of desire and societal expectations.

Opinions on "Bunner Sisters," another novella in the collection, were mixed. Some readers enjoyed the portrayal of the sisters' relationship and the intricate descriptions of their daily lives. However, others found the story lacked a compelling narrative arc and failed to make a lasting impression.

The collection's shorter works generated a range of reactions as well. Some readers found these stories engaging and thought-provoking, showcasing Wharton's versatility as a writer. Others, however, believed these pieces were weaker compared to her longer works, lacking the same depth and impact.

NovellasAndOtherWritings BookLovers ReadingRecommendations