Last February, I finished Edith Wharton's Ethan Frome
; shortly after that, I read Willa Cather's My Antonia
. In my mind there's an unrelenting association between the two that I never really thought about until now.
Long story short: I loved each novel. So much so (even with the depressive nature of Wharton's Frome), I didn't want the book to end. Oh, how I loved them. However, I didn't necessarily enjoy either for the storyline (although, My Antonia
was both sad and inspiring), I really could dig the feelings that resonated with my person after the stories had ended. 
Perhaps my association lies in the fact that both writers' have this incredible way with imagery that literally places you within the walls of the story. Or because they were female figures writing in an era when this art form was still predominately produced by men. I could feel the chill of the space that surrounded Frome's small kitchen table, the frigid wind whipping through and knotting my hair as I rode a sled barreling down a hillside. Furthermore, I witnessed golden fields of wheat, the brilliance of the changing seasons in the great Midwest, and the sacrifice and reward in cultivating foreign land.
After reviewing must-read lists and "greatest pieces of literature in the entire universe" lists, I realized I had to read more from each of these authors.
I'm no doubt kicking myself for not buying that fabric covered, vintage-looking O Pioneers!
that I saw at the used book store not too long ago.Enjoy Wharton or Cather? What titles do you suggest I tackle next?
Which authors left you in awe and have other works that you haven't read?
I have some Wharton on my shelf. I really need to get on that!
ReplyDeleteJane Austen..I never read Jane Austen until this year and I'm DYING to read more but just haven't yet!
I love this post. I just finished Ethan Frome a few weeks ago and it is still with me. It was my first Wharton so I can't suggest what to read next, but everyone who has read others tell me The House of Mirth is the way to go.
ReplyDeleteNow, I am adding My Antonia to my TBR.
Jamie,
ReplyDeleteI've heard nothing but great reviews of Wharton's other work. I'm really looking forward to hearing what you think once you get a chance to read what you have. I've read some Austen, and liked it, but should probably read more to familiarize myself with the references I see so often.
Brenna,
ReplyDeleteI really enjoyed your review of Ethan Frome. Perhaps that's the reason that particular novel keeps coming to mind. I almost picked The House of Mirth at a used book store, but decided against it when I looked at the price. I'll have to shop around Atlanta and see what I can find.
You must read My Antonia if you liked Ethan Frome-- The novel is simply beautiful!
The House of Mirth is one of the most beautiful books I have ever read, as far as language goes. It is also very sad, like Ethan Frome (that was my first Wharton too) but worth it. I was very attached to the characters at the end. I read My Antonia years ago and have been wanting to reread it - I'll have to move it up on my list. :)
ReplyDeleteI am a BIG fan of Edith Wharton and have enjoyed everything I've read by her. Willa Cather, I'm ashamed to say, has been on my list of people I really must read for ages. You've strengthened my resolve - I will pick up something by her next week, for sure. There are so many authors I want to read and haven't got around to I don't dare start listing them! :-)
ReplyDeleteMy Antonia is sitting on my nightstand right now... so I will be getting to it soon.
ReplyDeleteThank you for signing up for my Challenge too! I'm honored that you've chosen it to be your first ;o)