The Well of Loneliness

Paperback, 448 pages

Published May 14, 2006 by Wordsworth Editions Ltd.

ISBN:
978-1-84022-455-9
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OCLC Number:
154015961

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3 stars (1 review)

Stephen is an ideal child of aristocratic parentsa fencer, a horse rider and a keen scholar. Stephen grows to be a war hero, a bestselling writer and a loyal, protective lover. But Stephen is a woman, and her lovers are women. As her ambitions drive her, and society confines her, Stephen is forced into desperate actions.

11 editions

A whiny classic

3 stars

The Well of Loneliness is a great book to read for anyone interested in LGBT history, and European upper-class morality, but it is not a GOOD book. Not because it is classist, racist, homophobic (especially camp-phobic) and militarist - I understand moral standards and understandings of sexuality shift with time. Actually, it is a great chance to get a sense for the world views of a British aristocratic lady. But, there isn't much complexity, nor a desire to question moral judgements except those that directly affect Stephen. And, let's be honest, it is hard to write such a whiny book without being boring (even leaving aside the fact that Stephen's wealth gave her so many options that most lesbian/queer people didn't have).To my mind, there are two redeeming aspects to the book, both more evident in the first part - the one describing Stephen's growing up. First, the honesty and …

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  • Modern fiction

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