Susan Glaspell
The Visioning: A Novel
"The Visioning: A Novel" by Susan Glaspell is a work of fiction written in the early 20th century. The narrative introduces Miss Katherine Wayneworth Jones, affectionately known as Katie, who reflects on her life as she marks her twenty-fifth birthday while playing golf. Predominantly an "army girl," Katie grapples with expectations around her social life and marriage, particularly concerning Captain Prescott, while also expressing a curiosity about her life choices. The story takes a significant turn when she encounters a distressed girl named Verna Woods, who she believes is attempting to take her own life, igniting a profound connection between them. At the start of the novel, Katie finds herself in a bunker during a golf game and becomes contemplative about her life and relationships. It’s her birthday, prompting thoughts about her future and marriage prospects, particularly with Captain Prescott. However, her focus quickly shifts when she spots Verna Woods, a girl in distress, and instinctively rushes to save her from a possible suicide attempt at the nearby river. This impulsive act of compassion leads to an unexpected bond between the two women, as Verna, initially resistant, accepts Katie's offer for companionship. The opening chapters set the stage for an exploration of themes such as identity, the complexity of emotional connections, and the struggle between societal expectations and personal desires.