In 'The Rising Tide, ’ Margaret Wade Campbell Deland explores the intricate interplay of social mores and human emotion within a tightly woven narrative set in a New England seaside community. The novel is characterized by Deland’s signature realism and deft characterization, employing vivid imagery and poignant dialogue to illuminate the struggles of her characters as they grapple with love, ambition, and the expectations of society. Set against the backdrop of early 20th-century America, the book masterfully reflects the transitional period in which women navigated their roles at home and in the workforce, offering readers a profound insight into the dynamics of both personal and communal transformation. Margaret Wade Campbell Deland was a significant figure in American literature, known for her keen social observations and deep empathy for her characters. Born into a family of social reformers, her experiences as a suffragist and her engagement in various social causes profoundly influenced her writing. Deland’s commitment to exploring themes of gender and morality during a time of immense societal change is evident throughout 'The Rising Tide, ’ allowing her to create relatable and resilient protagonists who challenge the norms of their time. I highly recommend 'The Rising Tide’ to readers seeking a nuanced examination of early feminist themes woven into a compelling narrative. Deland’s exploration of the human spirit against the constraints of societal expectations is both timely and timeless, providing an enriching experience for those interested in the intricacies of character development and the shifting tides of cultural values.
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Margaret Wade Campbell Deland (1857–1945) was an American novelist, short story writer, and poet, recognized for her penetrating analysis of social and domestic situations. Deland’s narrative style is notable for its compassionate portrayal of character and the subtle articulation of complex relationships within the moral frameworks of her time. Born in Allegheny, Pennsylvania, she grew into a literary force with a social conscience, often compared to her contemporary, Edith Wharton. Deland’s novel 'The Rising Tide’ (1916) illustrates her skill in critiquing the constraints of societal expectations through her character’s lives, particularly concerning women’s roles and marriage. The book offers a telling reflection of progressive-era debates about personal autonomy, providing readers with a nuanced exploration of tradition versus reform. Deland’s oeuvre includes other important works such as 'John Ward, Preacher’ (1888), which explores the conflict between religious orthodoxy and liberal theology, and 'The Awakening of Helena Richie’ (1906), addressing issues of personal redemption. Despite Deland’s didactic purposes, her works remain enduring for their innovative use of dialogue and exploration of ethical dilemmas, securing her place in the American literary canon. Deland’s impact on literature extends beyond her narratives; she was a part of the influential literary circles of her day, and her home in Boston was a gathering place for notable writers and intellectuals, reflecting her central role in the cultural dialogues of early twentieth-century America.