I’m writing over at the Dark Jane Austen Book Club today about Jane Austen’s Lady Susan, Elizabeth Bennet, and the gift of discernment.
Mary C. M. Phillips
Caffeine-induced epiphanies and occasional literary musings
I’m writing over at the Dark Jane Austen Book Club today about Jane Austen’s Lady Susan, Elizabeth Bennet, and the gift of discernment.
I think any great writer, Austen or Wharton, Dickens or Twain, like their “chosen few” characters, must themselves, as a kind of prerequisite for using fiction to make a statement about society, have this gift of insight. Call it writer’s intuition.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Yes! And I love when the reader discovers a character’s true nature — via hints from the writer — before it’s revealed.
LikeLiked by 1 person
I don’t think ‘Lady Susan’ is a work many people read, yet so much of Austen’s really early work already shows that spark of wit and genius that would blossom in her adult years: bookheathen.wordpress.com/2014/10/26/janes-juvenilia/
LikeLike
I agree. I think one can appreciate Lady Susan more if they’ve already familiarized themselves with her later novels. Merry Christmas and best wishes for the New Year book heathen!
LikeLiked by 1 person
All the best to you!
LikeLike
I’ve been toying with the idea of re-reading Austen… I think this tipped me over the edge! Thank you 😀
LikeLike
You’re welcome Mrs. Crumpet! I think a lot of Jane’s writing is better the second time around. Particularly Emma. Best wishes for a Happy and Healthy New Year!
LikeLike