Drawing on Jane Austen's letters, novels and other people's memories of her, Lord David Cecil sets out 'to reconstruct and depict her living personality and to explore its relation to her art'. The portrait that emerges is of a clear-sighted, observant, strong-minded woman whose witty and ironic representation of her own society has delighted readers for centuries.
Two Poetic Painters: Samuel Palmer and Edward Burne-Jones
Focusing on the interplay between poetry and visual art, this work highlights the influence of imaginative literature on two pivotal English Romantic painters. Samuel Palmer, known for his visionary style, and Edward Burne-Jones, celebrated for his Pre-Raphaelite aesthetics, both drew inspiration from literary giants like Shakespeare, Milton, and Keats. The narrative explores how their inner lives and poetic inspirations shaped their artistic expressions, revealing the profound connection between poetry and painting during their era.
Set against the serene backdrop of a small Virginia lake, the narrative follows three children as they navigate the adventures and challenges of their youthful lives. Their bond deepens through shared experiences, exploring the beauty of nature and the complexities of friendship. As they face various trials, the story captures themes of innocence, growth, and the magic of childhood.