Peter's Mother By: Henry De La Pasture (1866-1945) |
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In "Peter's Mother" by Henry De La Pasture, readers are taken on an emotional journey that explores the complexities of family relationships and the power of love. Set in the early 20th century, the story revolves around the life of the titular character, Peter's Mother, as she grapples with the hardships and joys of being a mother, wife, and woman in a society defined by strict gender roles.
The novel begins with a glimpse into the idyllic life of Peter's Mother, who is adored by her young son and deeply loved by her husband. However, tragedy strikes when her husband passes away suddenly, leaving her to navigate life as a widow. Pasture beautifully captures the grief and despair that overwhelms Peter's Mother, but also highlights her resilience and determination to provide for her family.
Throughout the narrative, the author delves into several themes including societal expectations, sacrifice, and the inherent strength of women. Peter's Mother finds herself at odds with the constraints placed upon women in her time, as she seeks independence and struggles against the notion that her sole purpose is to be a mother and homemaker. This portrayal of a woman battling against societal norms is both timeless and relatable, reminding readers of the challenges women have faced historically and continue to face in different contexts.
While exploring these weighty themes, De La Pasture demonstrates his gift for crafting memorable characters. Peter's Mother is portrayed as a three-dimensional character, displaying a wide range of emotions and flaws. Her interactions with other characters, particularly her son Peter, are tender and touching, providing insight into the complexities of motherhood. The supporting cast is equally well-developed, each adding depth and perspective to the narrative.
De La Pasture's writing style is elegant and evocative, painting vivid pictures of the English countryside and immersing readers in the era. His attention to detail, particularly in the descriptions of nature and the changing seasons, adds a layer of richness to the story. The pacing is generally steady, though there are moments where it becomes slightly sluggish, slowing down the narrative momentum.
Overall, "Peter's Mother" is a poignant and thought-provoking novel that explores the intricacies of family life and the strength of women in the face of adversity. De La Pasture's masterful storytelling and well-crafted characters make this book a compelling read for those interested in historical fiction and explorations of gender roles. The emotional depth and relatability of the characters ensure that readers will be captivated until the very last page. NEW EDITION WITH INTRODUCTION BY MRS. HENRY DE LA PASTURE 1906 And I left my youth behind For somebody else to find . TO THE BELOVED MEMORY OF MY ONLY BROTHER LT. COLONEL WALTER FLOYD BONHAM, D.S.O. TO MY AMERICAN READERS The author of "Peter's Mother" has been bidden of the publishers, who have incurred the responsibility of presenting her to the American public, to write a preface to this edition of her novel. She does so with the more diffidence because it has been impressed upon her, by more than one wiseacre, that her novels treat of a life too narrow, an atmosphere too circumscribed, to be understood or appreciated by American readers. No one can please everybody; I suppose that no one, except the old man in Aesop's Fable, ever tried to do so. But I venture to believe that to some Americans, a sincere and truthful portrait of a typical Englishwoman of a certain class may prove attractive, as to us are the studies of a "David Harum," or others whose characteristics interest because and not in spite of their strangeness and unfamiliarity. We do not recognise the type; but as those who do have acknowledged the accuracy of the representation, we read, learn, and enjoy making acquaintance with an individuality and surroundings foreign to our own experience... Continue reading book >>
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