So I Have Thought of You: The Letters of Penelope Fitzgerald : Book Review

"So I Have Thought of You" by Penelope Fitzgerald is a captivating collection of previously unpublished short stories that offer a unique glimpse into the early works of this talented author. In this collection, Fitzgerald showcases her ability to create memorable characters and transport readers to diverse settings with her concise prose.

The stories in this collection cover a wide range of themes and subjects, each displaying Fitzgerald's keen observation of human nature. One story that particularly stands out is "An Anonymous Letter," where Fitzgerald explores the dynamics of power within a small community. Through the repercussions of a malicious anonymous letter, the author delves into the psychological effects on each character, exposing their vulnerabilities and insecurities. It's a captivating and thought-provoking tale that keeps readers on edge.

Another noteworthy story in this collection is "At Hiruharama," which takes readers to a remote New Zealand settlement. Through vivid descriptions and a touch of magical realism, Fitzgerald creates an atmosphere of isolation and otherness experienced by the settlers in this unfamiliar land. The story beautifully captures the struggle of navigating new environments and the desire for connection.

What truly sets Fitzgerald's writing apart is her ability to create deep and complex characters in each story. Whether it's a troubled young artist in "Julius" or a woman disillusioned by her marriage in "A Poor Relation," the characters feel incredibly real and relatable. Fitzgerald precisely conveys their thoughts and emotions, making them come alive on the page.

While some stories may feel slightly open-ended, the collection as a whole provides valuable insight into Fitzgerald's early literary career and foreshadows the themes and motifs that would later define her more well-known works. Even in these early stories, Fitzgerald's talent for crafting finely tuned narratives and evoking a sense of depth and subtlety is evident.

What are readers saying?

The book "So I Have Thought of You" by Penelope Fitzgerald has received differing opinions from its readers. Some readers praised Fitzgerald's writing style and her adeptness at capturing human emotions, while others found the book confusing and lacking in substance.

Many readers appreciated Fitzgerald's delicate prose and her talent for creating vivid characters. They found her portrayal of emotions to be authentic and powerful, allowing them to deeply connect with the characters. These readers were moved by the subtle exploration of themes such as love, loss, and loneliness. They commended Fitzgerald for her ability to evoke complex emotions through her writing.

However, there were also readers who struggled with the book's non-linear narrative and fragmented structure. They found the story confusing and felt that it lacked a clear direction. Some of these reviewers had a hard time keeping track of the different characters and their relationships, which made it difficult for them to fully engage with the story. Additionally, they felt that the book lacked depth and did not provide a satisfying resolution.

While the majority of reviews were somewhat positive, there were a few readers who expressed disappointment with the book. They found the pacing to be slow and felt that the plot lacked development. These reviewers considered the book dull and were unable to form a connection with the characters or their stories.

Overall, the reviews for "So I Have Thought of You" by Penelope Fitzgerald are mixed. While some readers found the book beautifully written and emotionally impactful, others struggled with its fragmented narrative and perceived lack of depth. Ultimately, it seems that readers' enjoyment of the book may depend on their personal preferences regarding style and structure.

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