E. M. Delafield's 'The Collected Works of E. M. Delafield (Illustrated)' stands as a monumental compendium, showcasing the enduring wit and incisive social commentary that define her writing. The anthology, inclusive of the beloved 'Provincial Lady' series, offers an insightful, satirical foray into the day-to-day travails and observations of an upper-middle class Englishwoman. Notably, her style blends piquant humor with a proto-feminist perspective, crafting narratives that both capture the zeitgeist of the interwar period and hold a mirror to the societal roles and expectations of women. Beyond the famed series are a selection of her novels, short stories, and plays, including 'Zella Sees Herself' and 'The War-Workers', which further explore individual psychologies and societal constraints through a variety of genres and stylistic forms within the literary Modernism of her time.
E. M. Delafield, born Edmée Elizabeth Monica Dashwood, was no stranger to the world she depicted with such acumen. Her own experiences, mired in the conventions she so deftly critiqued, undoubtedly informed the irony and the warmth of her narratives. A member of the upper-middle class herself, Delafield's oeuvre is more than mere entertainment-it is a nuanced study of the interplay between societal expectations and personal identity, particularly as it pertains to women of her class and era. Her intimate acquaintance with these lived realities furnished her with the material to create characters that resonate with authenticity and narratives that reverberate with depth.
For readers seeking not only a glimpse into the past but also a contemporary reflection on social mores, 'The Collected Works of E. M. Delafield (Illustrated)' is an indispensable read. This collected edition, comprehensive and adorned with illustrations, invites connoisseurs of classic British literature, devotees of women's writings, and newcomers alike to partake in Delafield's sharp-witted yet poignant take on life's varied tapestries. Indeed, Delafield's works transcend the period in which they were penned, offering timeless insight into the human condition.
