Author
E. M. Delafield
1890-1943
E. M. Delafield (1890-1943) is a public-domain author available on Rivro. Read free books, explore subjects, and discover related classics.
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Books by E. M. Delafield
Messalina of the suburbs
"Messalina of the Suburbs" by E. M. Delafield is a novel written in the early 20th century. The story revolves around the main character, Elsie Palmer, a sixteen-year-old girl navigating her tumultuous home life, marked by a strained relationship with her mother and the chaos of domestic obligations. As Elsie seeks self-expression and excitement beyond her restrictive environment, she becomes increasingly enmeshed in complex relationships with boys, including the charming yet manipulative Mr. Roberts and the older, married Doctor Woolley, leading her down a precarious path. At the start of the narrative, readers are introduced to Elsie and her challenging interactions with her overbearing mother, Mrs. Palmer, who attempts to impose strict decorum and order on her daughter's life. During Elsie's exchanges with her mother and sister, Geraldine, her desire for freedom and excitement becomes apparent, setting the tone for the conflicts ahead. Elsie's flirtation with boys unveils her emerging sexuality, and when she attends a cinema outing with Mr. Roberts, she experiences a rush of newfound independence and emotional complexity. The intricate dynamics within Elsie's family and her fervent exploration of adolescence lay the groundwork for deeper psychological developments that foreshadow the eventual catastrophe hinted at in the dedication.
The optimist
"The Optimist" by E. M. Delafield is a novel written in the early 20th century. The story revolves around Owen Quentillian as he reflects on his past experiences and relationships with the Morchard family while grappling with his own identity and aspirations. In particular, it explores the dynamics within the Canon Morchard's household, highlighting themes of duty, love, and self-discovery. The opening of the novel introduces Owen Quentillian embarking on a voyage and recalling his childhood connection with the Morchard family, particularly his recollections of Valeria and her siblings. Reflecting on his poignant experiences at St. Gwenllian, Owen navigates memories of interactions with the Canon, his daughters, and the dynamics of their family life. As Owen reconnects with Lucilla and the Canon, he wrestles with feelings of nostalgia and a desire to understand his place in their lives, while Valeria emerges as a significant figure, embodying complexities of personal expectations versus familial duty. The beginning sets the stage for an exploration of relationships, individual aspirations, and the intricacies of family loyalty, eventually leading Owen toward a more profound introspection about partnership and belonging.
The pelicans
"The Pelicans" by E. M. Delafield is a novel written in the early 20th century. The story explores themes of family, responsibility, and emotional struggle, focusing on the lives of two orphaned sisters, Rosamund and Frances Grantham, as they navigate their feelings after the death of their mother and adapt to their new lives. The narrative also delves into the dynamics of their new guardianship under Bertha Tregaskis, a capable yet somewhat overwhelming figure, and her family, highlighting a stark contrast between the sisters' previous upbringing and their new environment. At the start of the novel, we meet Lady Argent and her son, Ludovic, who discuss the recent death of Mrs. Grantham and how her children will be cared for. Bertha Tregaskis, a caring relative, decides to take in the orphaned girls, and tensions arise as Rosamund expresses resentment towards the transition. The opening section revolves around the complexities of the sisters' emotions, particularly Rosamund's defiance and struggle to retain her identity amidst the changes. The narrative captures the delicate nature of childhood grief and the challenges of adjusting to loss, all while introducing a cast of characters that influence the sisters' evolving lives.
Consequences
"Consequences" by E.M. Delafield is a novel written in the early 20th century, specifically during the years around World War I. The story revolves around the life of Alex Clare, exploring her upbringing with her siblings and the complexities of her relationships, particularly with authority figures and her peers. The narrative highlights themes of childhood innocence, family dynamics, and the consequences of actions, as indicated by the title. The opening of the book introduces readers to the Clare children gathered around the nursery playing a game called "Consequences." Through their interactions, we meet Alex, the self-appointed leader, who navigates sibling rivalry and the expectations placed upon her. The scene sets the stage for themes of competition and the desire for approval, particularly as Alex grapples with her familial role and the influence of the nursery maid, Emily. As the narrative progresses, Alex's impulsive nature leads to significant repercussions, hinting at the broader implications of her actions, which sets up a compelling trajectory for her character development throughout the rest of the novel.
The heel of Achilles
"The Heel of Achilles" by E. M. Delafield is a novel written in the early 20th century. The story revolves around the character Lydia Raymond, a precocious and introspective twelve-year-old orphan who faces the complications of her new life with her aunts and grandfather after her mother’s death. The narrative explores themes of individuality, grief, and the quest for autonomy within the confines of family expectations and the rigidity of social norms. The opening of the novel introduces Lydia as she reflects on her status as an orphan, revealing her feelings of neglect amid the well-intended but suffocating care of her relatives. As the chapters unfold, Lydia grapples with the attention of her family members who are more concerned about their grief than her own feelings. The text provides a rich backdrop of early 20th-century British society, showcasing Lydia's keen observations about her relatives' behaviors and expectations. Through her experiences, we witness her attempts to carve out her own identity while navigating the complex dynamics of her new household, underlining her journey of self-discovery and assertion against the backdrop of familial obligations.
A reversion to type
"A Reversion to Type" by E. M. Delafield is a novel written in the early 20th century. The story centers around the Aviolet family, particularly focusing on Lady Aviolet, her daughter-in-law Rose, and young Cecil, as they navigate life at Squires, their ancestral home. The narrative explores themes of family dynamics, societal expectations, and the contrasts between traditional British values and modern sensibilities. At the start of the novel, readers are introduced to the opulent yet suffocating environment of Squires, where Dr. Lucian, a family physician, is called to examine young Cecil. The interactions among Lady Aviolet, Rose, and Dr. Lucian reveal underlying tensions, particularly concerning young Cecil's upbringing and his struggle to adapt after returning from Ceylon, where he was raised by his mother Rose. As they discuss his health and education, it becomes evident that the family harbors high expectations, often at odds with Rose's intuitive maternal instincts, setting the stage for exploring deeper conflicts surrounding identity, truth, and societal norms.
Mrs. Harter
"Mrs. Harter" by E. M. Delafield is a novel written in the early 20th century. The story revolves around the enigmatic character Diamond Harter, whose return to the quaint English town of Cross Loman stirs mixed recollections and intrigue among the locals. Through the eyes of those in the community, the narrative explores themes of perception, societal norms, and personal complexity, primarily focusing on Diamond's interactions with others, notably Captain Patch, a new acquaintance. At the start of the book, we are introduced to a reflective narrator, who grapples with the memories and impressions left by Mrs. Harter's presence alongside other town figures like Claire Ambrey and Nancy Fazackerly. The characters begin to reconstruct their thoughts surrounding Mrs. Harter, shedding light on their differing perceptions of her character, as well as introducing Captain Patch, who holds a unique interest in her. The atmosphere of Cross Loman, a seemingly tame yet layered community, rapidly comes alive as Diamond, with her assertive personality and past background, sets the stage for entangled relationships and social dynamics that will unfurl as the story progresses.
Humbug : $b a study in education
"Humbug: A Study in Education" by E. M. Delafield is a novel written in the early 20th century. The story follows the emotional complexities of childhood through the experiences of Lily Stellenthorpe and her sister Yvonne, exploring themes of parental expectations, societal pressures, and the often painful realities of familial love. As the narrative unfolds, it delves into the dynamics of their family life, marked by Lily's fierce protectiveness over her sister, who struggles with various challenges. The opening portion of the novel sets the stage for the Stellenthorpe family's environment, illustrating the tensions and misunderstandings between the parents and their two daughters. It introduces Lily as a sensitive and intelligent child who feels the deep injustices towards Yvonne, who is perceived as mentally deficient. The depiction of Lily's emotional turmoil, coupled with her conflicting desires to please her parents and protect her sister, forms the core of the narrative. Their mother and father, while loving, are portrayed as being oblivious to the sisters' profound struggles, leading to a rich exploration of childhood psychology and an examination of how societal and familial expectations can stifle genuine connections.
The War-Workers
"The War-Workers" by E. M. Delafield is a novel written in the early 20th century, specifically around the time of World War I. The story revolves around a group of women working at the Midland Supply Depôt, where they manage logistics and supplies for the war efforts. The main character is Miss Charmian Vivian, who is dedicated to her role as director, showcasing her resilience and commitment while the narrative explores themes of sacrifice, camaraderie, and the social dynamics within the wartime setting. The opening of the novel introduces us to the Hostel for Voluntary Workers in Questerham, where the dedicated staff discusses Miss Vivian's demanding workload and their observations of her tireless efforts. The interaction among the characters reveals the camaraderie and occasional frustrations that arise in their service. Contrasting perspectives on their work highlight Vivian's effectiveness and the strain it places on her and her team. As we meet other characters like Miss Delmege and Miss Marsh, the dynamics of support and rivalry unfold, setting the stage for further exploration of their lives and challenges in the context of wartime volunteerism.
Tension
"Tension" by E. M. Delafield is a novel written in the early 20th century." The story introduces a variety of characters, including Aunt Iris, who has written a provocative book titled "Why, Ben! A Story of the Sexes," and her unwitting young niece, Ruthie, who announces this news to Lady Rossiter and Sir Julian Rossiter during breakfast. The narrative alludes to family dynamics, societal expectations, and the way personal interests clash within a seemingly genteel community. "The opening of "Tension" sets a lively and chaotic scene at the Rossiter household, as young Ruthie eagerly shares the news of her aunt's book, bringing about varying reactions of shock and disbelief from the adults." As the children, Ruthie and her brother Ambrose, display their excitement about Aunt Iris's literary endeavor, their behaviors invite both humor and exasperation from Sir Julian and Lady Rossiter. The mention of Aunt Iris's book not only serves as a catalyst for the conversation but also hints at underlying themes of gender dynamics and the expectations placed upon women of the era, particularly through the scandalous title and subject matter of the book itself. This lively introduction promises a narrative that will explore tension—not just in relationships but in societal norms and personal aspirations as well.