The Messalina of the Suburbs: True Crime Murder Mystery
E. M. Delafield
May 2022 · DigiCat
Ebook
250
Pages
family_home
Eligible
info
reportRatings and reviews aren’t verified Learn More
About this ebook
In "The Messalina of the Suburbs," E. M. Delafield intricately weaves social satire with a keen psychological insight into the lives of suburban women in post-World War I England. This novel, written in 1923, exemplifies Delafield's deft use of irony and characterization, presenting a vivid tableau of societal expectations and personal desires. Through the life of its protagonist, an ostensibly mundane housewife, the narrative unfolds layers of hypocrisy that underpin suburban respectability, all while employing a conversational tone enriched with humor and astute observations on gender roles. E. M. Delafield, born in 1890, was a groundbreaking writer who often drew inspiration from her own experiences in the British middle class. Her literary career flourished as she navigated the complexities of women's lives and the shifting social landscape of the early 20th century. Delafield's sharp wit and intimate understanding of domestic life are evident in this novel, allowing her to challenge conventional norms and offer a voice to the frustrations of her contemporaries. "The Messalina of the Suburbs" is a must-read for anyone interested in feminist literature and social commentary. Delafield's humor, combined with her critical perspective on suburban life, creates a compelling narrative that resonates even today. This novel invites readers to reflect on the perennial struggles for identity and autonomy within societal confines.
About the author
E. M. Delafield, the nom de plume of Edmée Elizabeth Monica Dashwood, née de la Pasture (1890-1943), was an esteemed English author best known for her largely autobiographical Diary of a Provincial Lady series. With a literary career that spanned the inter-war period, Delafield's incisive wit and keen observation of domestic life won her the affection and admiration of a widespread readership. While much of her work is characterized by a light, satirical touch, she also ventured into more somber territory. 'The Messalina of the Suburbs' is one such work, delving into psychological and social themes. This novel, among others, illustrates Delafield's versatility and her ability to engage with darker human experiences, while maintaining a distinct narrative voice. A member of the notoriously intellectual group of writers, The Detection Club, Delafield's contributions extend beyond her own bibliography, reflecting the breadth of her engagement with literary society at the time. Throughout her career, she maintained a delicate balance between humor and the gravity of the subjects she chose to explore, thus securing her place in the annals of 20th-century British literature.
Rate this ebook
Tell us what you think.
Reading information
Smartphones and tablets
Install the Google Play Books app for Android and iPad/iPhone. It syncs automatically with your account and allows you to read online or offline wherever you are.
Laptops and computers
You can listen to audiobooks purchased on Google Play using your computer's web browser.
eReaders and other devices
To read on e-ink devices like Kobo eReaders, you'll need to download a file and transfer it to your device. Follow the detailed Help Center instructions to transfer the files to supported eReaders.
