Subject
Women -- Societies and clubs -- Fiction Books
Best books
Edith Wharton
Xingu
"Xingu" by Edith Wharton is a short story written in the early 20th century. This witty and insightful narrative explores the theme of intellectual pretension through a gathering of the "Lunch Club," a group of women who pride themselves on their cultural pursuits and discussions. The story delves into the dynamics of their interactions and the social pressures that drive them to uphold a facade of knowledge and sophistication. In the story, the members of the Lunch Club excitedly prepare for the visit of the esteemed author Osric Dane, hoping to impress her with their cultural understanding. However, their discussions become increasingly absurd and comical as they misinterpret the nature of "Xingu," initially believing it to be a profound subject of debate. The story captures the absurdity of their pretensions as they struggle to engage with Dane, while one member, Mrs. Roby, inadvertently shifts the conversation to more ludicrous interpretations of the topic. In the end, it is revealed that they had been discussing a river in Brazil rather than an intellectual concept, highlighting the disconnect between their aspirations to be seen as cultured and the reality of their shallow discussions. Ultimately, Wharton criticizes the pretensions of social clubs and the emptiness of their so-called intellectual pursuits.
George A. (George Alexander) Kyle
The Morning Glory Club
"The Morning Glory Club" by George A. Kyle is a novel written in the early 20th century. The story revolves around the lives of women in a small New England town, focusing on their aspirations for empowerment through the formation of a women's club. Central to the narrative is Mrs. Emerson Tweedie, a spirited woman determined to prove that women can be a force for good in their community. The opening of the novel introduces Mrs. Tweedie as she prepares for the first meeting of what will become the Morning Glory Club. We see her interaction with her husband Ezra, who displays a combination of support and skepticism towards her ambitions. As Mrs. Tweedie welcomes other women to discuss the formation of the club, the dynamics between the characters reveal tensions stemming from social class differences, personal ambitions, and the challenges that arise in female camaraderie. The humor, misunderstandings, and relatable domestic chaos set the tone for the unfolding story of these women's journeys as they strive to assert their agency in a male-dominated society.
Thompson Buchanan
Making People Happy
"Making People Happy" by Thompson Buchanan is a novel written in the early 20th century. The narrative centers around Cicily Hamilton, a young bride who is grappling with her role in marriage and her desire for purpose beyond domesticity. Set against a backdrop of social issues concerning women's rights, the story explores the dynamics within the Civitas Club, where women converge to discuss the emancipation of their gender while also revealing personal conflicts and ambitions. The opening of the novel introduces us to Cicily as she presides over an enthusiastic yet chaotic meeting of the Civitas Club, where the members, a mix of spirited women, are in a frenzy about women's rights and societal roles. Cicily struggles to maintain order and ultimately reveals her frustration with both the club's lack of direction and her own dissatisfaction in her marriage. As she navigates the tumult of the club's discussions and her tumultuous emotions, the narrative sets the stage for her journey to find personal fulfillment and to confront the expectations placed upon her as a wife and a member of society.
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