There is a fantastic review of this book here by Leaning towards the sun which says far more than I could write about the book; I will let you read that review rather than repeat myself talking about the plot. I found the book hugely enjoyable; the premise of the difficulties encountered in relationships between those of different backgrounds and classes greatly interested me and was handled well by Sackville-West. I felt frustrated at times when characters failed to understand the viewpoint of others, such as Mr Jarrold's incomprehension that his grandson Dan should not want to pursue traditional hobbies such as shooting and fishing. I found myself identifying with Evelyn when she failed to understand the importance of Miles' work to him.
When I'd finished, I went back and had a look at the introduction by Victoria Glendinning. It said that quite a lot of the material in the book was drawn from Sackville-West's own life and relationships. Most interesting of all was the fact that the house inhabited by the Jarrold's where much of the action takes place was based on Sissinghurst where Sackville-West lived. I am now desperate to visit Sissinghurst, and also to watch Portrait of a Marriage which is a dramatisation of the relationship between Sackville West and Harold Nicholson.
I am sorry that it has taken me so long to getting around to reading Sackville West. Can't quite decide which one to read next though...I have All Passion Spent, The Edwardians and No Signposts in the Sea.
Two Virago Modern classic editions. Simon gave me the original first cover, but it has subsequently been reissued in the more modern green style.
Being a Virginia Woolf fan, I am intrigued by Vita Sackville-West but I've yet to read any of her work (nor that of Violet Trefusis) although I have copies of All Passion Spent and No Signposts in the Sea.
ReplyDeleteThe only book by Sackville-West I've read is No Signposts by the Sea and I loved it. I have Family History, Edwardians and All Passion Spent on my To be read pile. I think like, you, I just don't know which one to read next. I'm almost afraid to be disappointed because I enjoyed the first book so much.
ReplyDeleteYou can read portrait of a marriage and it's fab. Actually all the Nicholson books are great; there's a huge seam to mine there. Adam's book on Sissinghurst is on my Christmas wishlist... and you MUST go, it's beautiful.
ReplyDeleteThanks for the feedback everyone - I think it is likely to be All Passion next - I can hardly wait. The VMC I read yesterday after this was such a let down.
ReplyDeleteI got a copy of Family History off ebay and it is on my tbr pile. I haven't read any Sackville-West and am very intrigued. I went to her family home Knole a few months ago which I really recommend.
ReplyDeleteKnole sounds interesting; I didn't know about it and have just googled! Have All Passion Spent in my handbag today.
ReplyDeleteEnjoy reading All Passion Spent today, can't wait to hear what you think of it. I'm thinking I want to order a copy of No Signposts by the sea.
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