Though not nearly as well known as some of her other works, such as "Pride and Prejudice" or "Sense and Sensibility", "Persuasion" was one of Jane's later works and it is clear she improved as a writer as she grew older. It was published after her death and is considered one of her best works.
The story follows Anne Elliot, a single 'young lady' of 27, who eight years prior had rejected an engagement and has had no other suitors. She had been persuaded by a family friend to reject him on the grounds that the man was poor. The story picks up with her own family struggling financially and she is re-acquainted with her former love, Frederick Wentworth, who seems uninterested in her now that he has become a wealthy and successful seafaring captain. Their removal to Bath in an effort to retrench, throws Anne into various new situations, meeting other suitors and giving her the opportunity to find the truth about love and its endurance.
Much wit, poking fun at the snobbish and wealthy classes, and a lovely, fresh voice shining a light on those who earn their way to success is a hallmark of this classic novel. The language is beautiful and the mastery of tongue in cheek wit is something to behold. Many films have been made of this wonderful story and yet, as is true nearly all the time, the book is better! It is a delightful choice for a book club discussion, and reading it-with the older and more intricate language-probably raises your IQ by several points.
No comments:
Post a Comment