The Collected Works

E. M. Delafield's 'The Collected Works' is a masterfully curated anthology that encapsulates the multifaceted literary career of this astute commentator on early 20th-century society. Rich in keen observation and dry wit, the collection delves into themes of domesticity, the female experience, and the complex relationships within the modern social fabric. Delafield's prose is characterized by a blend of humor and poignancy, drawing readers into a world where mundane realities are tinged with a deeper existential significance, and where traditional narrative structures give way to a more fragmented, modernist style reflective of her contemporaries. Born in 1890 in London, E. M. Delafield was steeped in literary culture, influenced by her upbringing and education. Her experiences as a woman navigating the constraints of her era and her commitment to portraying the subtleties of daily life shape her narrative voice. As a prolific author, she produced numerous novels, short stories, and essays, drawing upon her own life experiences as a mother and writer, which endowed her work with authenticity and insight. This anthology is not just for enthusiasts of Delafield's work; it serves as an essential resource for scholars and casual readers alike, inviting a fresh examination of the societal norms of her time. 'The Collected Works' is a celebration of a writer who skillfully illuminates the hidden complexities of ordinary life, making it a compelling addition to any literary canon.

E. M. Delafield, the pen name of Edmée Elizabeth Monica Dashwood (née de la Pasture), was a renowned English author distinguished for her witticism and satirical flair. Born on June 9, 1890, in Steyning, Sussex, Delafield became famous for her largely autobiographical 'Diary of a Provincial Lady' series, which offered a humorous chronicle of the domestic and social trials of an upper-middle-class Englishwoman. Her literary style is celebrated for its incisive social commentary and the dexterity with which she conveys the minutiae of everyday life. With 'The Collected Works,' readers gain comprehensive access to Delafield's extensive range of novels, short stories, and plays. Noted for her sharp wit and keen observation, Delafield's narratives often explore the dynamics of family life, the roles of women in interwar society, and the frictions between aristocratic values and modern impulses. Delafield wrote approximately 30 books, and though she is best known for her 'Provincial Lady' series, her novels such as 'Zella Sees Herself' and 'The Way Things Are' further showcase her psychological insight and sophisticated humor. As a member of the twentieth-century literary canon, E. M. Delafield's contributions to English literature and social satire endure, resonating with both contemporary and modern audiences seeking authenticity and poignant societal reflection within the interwar period and the canon of feminist literature.