It was an exciting time for young women of the 1920s as they embraced liberation from the pre–World War I traditions of their mothers. In the mild Mediterranean climate of the Italian Riviera, a rebellious young Sydney Warren cautiously tested her newfound freedom, developing an intimate relationship with the charming middle-aged widow Mrs. Kerr that caused rumors and speculation to stir among the wealthy British guests of a luxurious seaside hotel.
A sapphic affair simmers beneath the surface of Elizabeth Bowen’s captivating first novel, published in 1927. With its masterful storytelling, combined with Bowen’s keen observations and elegant prose,
The Hotel beautifully illuminates the contrast between the tranquil Italian setting and the underlying tensions among the privileged characters. The novel is a thoughtful exploration of social norms, personal identity, and the subtle dynamics of group interaction, resulting in a rich story that often relies on what is left unsaid as much as what is written on the page.
Tabella dei contenuti
1. Quarrel
2. Sydney
3. Late for Lunch
4. Bathroom
5. Picnic
6. The Kiss
7. Out of Order
8. In the Drawing-Room
9. My Little Boy
10. Mr. Milton
11. The Dance
12. Any Hope?
13. Cemetery
14. Music
15. Lucid
16. Villa
17. P
âtisserie
18. I Do Want To
19. Tea-Garden
20. Mrs. Kerr
21. Valley
22. Rather Afraid
23. Next Corner
24. Kindness
25. Going Away