In "Shadows on the Rock," Willa Cather presents a rich tapestry of life in 17th-century Quebec, entwining themes of resilience, cultural identity, and the interplay between nature and human endeavor. Employing her trademark lyrical prose, Cather immerses readers in the setting, invoking both the harshness and beauty of the Canadian landscape while creating intricate character portraits that reflect the complexities of colonial life. This novel stands in the context of Cathers broader body of work, known for its deep connection to place and her exploration of the pioneering spirit, as seen in her earlier works set in the American West. Willa Cather, acclaimed for her vivid depictions of the American frontier, draws on her own background and experiences to infuse authenticity into her portrayal of French settlers in New France. Cathers interest in the historical narratives of immigrants enriched her writing, contributing to her ability to evoke both subjectivity and universality of experience. "Shadows on the Rock," published in 1931, reflects her fascination with the struggles and aspirations of those who occupied the margins of history, reminding readers of the variegated tapestry of human lives. This compelling narrative invites readers to reflect on themes of belonging and the indelible marks of history, making it a vital addition to both Cathers oeuvre and the wider canon of American literature. Fans of historical fiction and Cathers works will find much to admire in this exquisite exploration of early Canadian life, encouraging readers to ponder the shadows cast by time on our shared human experience.
The first novel in the Great Plains trilogy, this is an ode to the American Midwest and the immigrants who transformed itTo the anger of her brothers, it is Alexandra who is entrusted to manage their family farm in the tough, hostile prairie of Hanover, N
The second novel in the Great Plains trilogy, this is a passionate portrait of the artist as a young woman Thea Kronberg, a young girl from a small town in Colorado has a great gift - her beautiful singing voice. Her talent takes her to the great opera houses of Europe, and through ambition and hard work, she forges a life as an artist. But if she can never go home again, nor can she leave behind her past. At last, in a desert canyon in Arizona, Thea has a revelation that will allow her to attain a new state of spirituality and become a truly great artist. 'Willa Cather makes a world which is burningly alive, sometimes lovely, often tragic' Helen Dunmore 'The Song of the Lark illuminates all her work' A. S. Byatt 'Lingers long in the memory' Joyce Carol Oates
Brilliantly intelligent, rich and stylish Myra is a living legend in her hometown.But she sends shockwaves through the community when she rejects her riches and elopes with hard-up Oswald Henshawe.When Nellie, a long-time acquaintance of Myras, next sees the couple, they are living a glamorously poor Bohemian life in post-Revolution Paris, with singers, actors, poets and artists in and out of their apartment.But, when elegant poverty becomes real poverty in a tumbledown hotel, Myra realises the identity of her Mortal Enemy.This heart-rending study of the blessings and curses of love is perfect for fans of Thomas Hardys Tess of the dUrbervilles and Middlemarch by George Eliot.
From one of the foremost 20th-century novelists, a portrait of a formidable woman who defies the limitations set on women of her time and social station to become an international opera star. This coming-of-age novel, important for the issues of gender and class that it explores, is one of Cather''s most lyrical and popular.
Willa Cather''s My Ántonia is considered one of the most significant American novels of the twentieth century. Set during the great migration west to settle the plains of the North American continent, the narrative follows Antonia Shimerda, a pioneer who comes to Nebraska as a child and grows with the country, inspiring a childhood friend, Jim Burden, to write her life story. The novel is important both for its literary aesthetic and as a portrayal of important aspects of American social ideals and history, particularly the centrality of migration to American culture.
Tom Outland, killed in the Great War, seemed an embodiement of the American frontier spirit But he has left a troubling legacy, inspiring to his former professor Godfrey St Peter, but bringing betrayal and strife to the professor''s two married daughters.
The Troll Garden is a collection of short stories by Willa Cather, published in 1905.This collection contains the following seven stories:"Flavia and Her Artists""The Sculptors Funeral""A Death in the Desert""The Garden Lodge""The Marriage of Phaedra""A Wagner Matinee""Pauls Case"
