E. M. Delafield Knihy

Continuing the charming narrative of early 20th-century English life, this sequel delves into the author's witty observations and experiences as a provincial lady. With a blend of humor and keen social commentary, it captures the nuances of domestic life, societal expectations, and personal aspirations. The protagonist navigates various challenges and delights, offering readers a relatable and engaging glimpse into her world, enriched by the author's autobiographical elements.

The goal of the provincial lady is to maintain 'niceness', whether it be in the home, relationships or personal behaviour. 'The Diary of a Provincial Lady' first published in the 1930s is a witty celebration of the suburban British housewife. in wartime.

Alex Clare is awkward and oversensitive and gets everything wrong; she refuses to marry the only young man who ‘offers’ and believes there is nothing left for her but to enter a convent. But that is not quite the end of her tragic story. Nor was it for EM Delafield, who also entered a convent for a year; but in her case she was able to find freedom through working as a VAD in an army hospital, ‘which was emancipation of the most delirious kind. It was occupation, it was self-respect.’Like Lytton Strachey’s Eminent Victorians, written at the same time, Consequences is a scream of horror against Victorian values; however, its ironic tone cannot disguise EM Delafield’s deeply compassionate and feminist stance.

Tension examines reputation and the persistence of gossip in relation to a woman's choice of work and domestic arrangements with a light touch of humour.

Set in the Côte d'Azur, Hilary and Angie Moon have to live on their wits and her beauty. This novel is a light satirical take on the residents and guests of a Hotel on the French Riviera who have their own strength and flaws and must come to terms with their lives, age and romance over the course of a typical summer. E. M. Delafield (1890-1943) was a prolific English author who is best known for her largely autobiographical works like Zella Sees Herself, Provincial Lady Series etc. which look at the lives of upper-middle class Englishwomen. Excerpt: "Maman, j'ai raté l'autobus!" The shimmering heat-haze of the afternoon seemed to quiver as the shrill, lamentable announcement of this disaster broke into the silence that lay over the deserted terrace of the Hotel." (The Gay Life)

Originally published in 1918, the story centers around the characters that live and work at an army support institution during WWI. Charmian Vivian (Char), the charismatic Director, runs the Depot like an amateur dictator a la P.G. Wodehouse’s Roderick Spode. She uses tyranny and the cult of personality to overwork her employees and to take over other operations like a café that are not her concern. Enter Grace Jones, an archdeacon’s daughter, who has moved to the area to contribute to the war effort and who is also, upper-class.

Exploring timeless themes of love and commitment, the narrative centers on Cindy, who grapples with the dilemma of remaining in a comfortable marriage versus sacrificing everything for true love. The story delves into the complexities of relationships and the emotional turmoil that accompanies such choices, reflecting modern struggles that resonate across generations.

Set in 1930s Russia, the story unfolds through a diary format, chronicling a woman's experiences on a collective farm and her challenges with public transport and daily life under Soviet rule. It presents a vivid and entertaining portrayal of the era, reflecting both personal struggles and the broader societal context. E. M. Delafield, known for her insightful observations, offers readers a unique glimpse into early twentieth-century Russia, making this semi-autobiographical novel a noteworthy addition to any literary collection.