Deephaven and Selected Stories & Sketches

by Sarah Orne Jewett

"Deephaven and Selected Stories & Sketches" by Sarah Orne Jewett is a collection of short stories written in the late 19th century. The narratives primarily revolve around the quaint seaside town of Deephaven, exploring the lives and interactions of its residents through a series of sketches that depict their day-to-day experiences, relationships, and the charm of the coastal landscape. The prominent characters in the stories include young women Kate Lancaster and her friend Helen, who become intertwined within the fabric of Deephaven society during their summer stay. The opening of "Deephaven" introduces readers to Helen as she reflects on her feelings of melancholy before embarking on an adventure with her friend Kate. The two young women, after learning of Kate's inheritance of her grand-aunt's property in the titular town, decide to spend the summer together in Deephaven. Through their journey, they encounter various locals, such as the weathered Mrs. Kew, who lives in a lighthouse, and reminisce about the town's forgotten grandeur and the stories of its past residents. The narrative is filled with rich descriptions that evoke the charm and tranquility of coastal life, fostering a sense of nostalgia and exploration as the characters discover both the picturesque surroundings and the vibrant community.