56 pages • 1 hour read
A Lost Lady
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Book Brief
102
Novel • Fiction
Nebraska • Early 20th century
1923
Adult
16-18 years
Super Short Summary
A Lost Lady by Willa Cather, published in 1923, tells the story of Marian Forrester as seen through Niel Herbert, a young boy in the railroad town of Sweet Water. Set in the late 19th century, the novel explores the decline of the Forresters' social and financial status, mirroring the broader transition from the pioneer era to a more exploitative capitalist society. The narrative highlights Marian's charm and the impact of the changing times on her and those around her.
Melancholic
Contemplative
Nostalgic
Bittersweet
Mysterious
Reviews & Readership
8,379 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Review Roundup
Willa Cather's A Lost Lady is celebrated for its evocative prose and rich portrayal of pioneer life, with critics praising its central themes of nostalgia and change. Some find the character development lacking depth, though, and the pacing occasionally slow. Overall, it remains a cherished classic offering poignant insights into human nature and societal transitions.
Who Should Read A Lost Lady?
A reader who enjoys A Lost Lady by Willa Cather likely appreciates nuanced character studies and themes of change and decay. Fans of Edith Wharton's The Age of Innocence and F. Scott Fitzgerald's The Great Gatsby will find appeal in its exploration of societal shifts and personal disillusionment.
8,379 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Marian Ormsby Forrester Collins
Marian Ormsby Forrester Collins
Marian Forrester is a captivating woman from California, known for her beauty and charm, who is married to Captain Daniel Forrester. She is involved in the social life of Sweet Water and has a lively and adventurous spirit.
Captain Daniel Forrester
Captain Daniel Forrester
Captain Daniel Forrester is a former Civil War officer who became wealthy through railroad construction. He is respected for his integrity and represents the pioneering spirit, living with his wife Marian in their ideal home in Sweet Water.
Ivy Peters
Ivy Peters
Ivy Peters is a young lawyer notorious for his cruelty and contempt for the upper class. He becomes entwined with the Forresters’ affairs and symbolizes the changing social dynamics in Sweet Water.
Judge Pommeroy
Judge Pommeroy
Judge Pommeroy is Niel Herbert's uncle and a long-standing friend of the Forresters. He plays a significant role in Niel's upbringing and career choices, serving as a connection to the elite social class of Sweet Water.
102
Novel • Fiction
Nebraska • Early 20th century
1923
Adult
16-18 years
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