The unpretenders

by Ruth Cranston

"The Unpretenders" by Ruth Cranston is a novel written in the early 20th century. The story revolves around various characters, including a plain woman named Anne, a writer named Timothy, and members of their social circle, as they navigate the expectations of society and the complexities of self-identity. Central to the narrative is the theme of authenticity versus pretension, as each character grapples with their roles and aspirations against the backdrop of societal norms. The opening of the novel introduces us to various characters in a relaxed, domestic setting. Anne, who is portrayed as an ordinary woman engaged in practical tasks like trimming hats and managing the household, is approached by her friends Michael and Doromea as they prepare for the arrival of Timothy, a writer of plain stories. The dialogue reveals not only their relationships but also hints at deeper themes: Timothy's views on what constitutes "plain" people and the irony of societal expectations. Through gentle humor and insightful conversations, the narrative sets the stage for exploring how each character, in their own way, is striving or resisting the need to conform to societal ideals while facing their personal dilemmas.