Precious Bane by Mary Webb

For February 2011, we will read Precious Bane by Mary Webb. 

       This is my favorite novel of all time- which, somewhat oddly,  makes me feel vulnerable.  I am still trying to figure out why this is so-where is Wendy when we need an analysis? :) Actually, I do have some ideas that perhaps I will share when we meet.  That way I can test whether my reactions are my own sentimental journey or possibly similar to universal aspects of life, love and the human experience.  I try to read Precious Bane once a year so that the imagery, symbolism and language can inform my thoughts and feelings continually.

        Mary Webb was an English romantic novelist and poet who wrote during the first quarter of the 20th century.  She was a contemparary of C.S. Lewis.  Amusingly, Cold Comfort Farm by Stella Gibbons-which we read a while ago-is a parody of her stories. 

        I mispoke yesterday at lunch, the title is actually taken from Milton's Paradise Lost:

                                              

Let none admire

That riches grow in Hell; that Soyle may best

Deserve the precious bane.

         I encourage you all to read the novel first and then do some research if you are so inclined.  All articles I have seen, including the forward in the current edition of the book, contain specific plot details.  In my opinion, previewing the characters and these details will spoil the dramatic tension of the story for a first-time reader.

         I did some checking:  the library does have a copy, which I have placed on hold.  I will post if I actually get it.  I have one lending copy.  Otherwise, it is available in paperback on Amazon.  Barnes and Noble may actually carry it in the store- I will check.  For your planning, I would not describe it as a quick read unless you can tie your family in a closet and devote yourself to it entirely for a few days.  And, when I first read it, I looked up a number of words.  These words are readable in context, but I wanted to make sure as it is written in the local dialect of Shropshire in the early 1800's. 

        Whether or not you love the book as I do, I think it will make for a great discussion of both the story itself and of how it relates to our own experiences.  It has some of everything:  history, women's issues, love, romance, treachery, villainy, nature, Christian imagery, symbolism, the supernatural, etc, etc.

        Happy Reading!  See you on February 23, at 7pm!

Emily