E. M. Delafield

Edmée Elizabeth Monica Dashwood, better known by her pen name E. M. Delafield, was born on June 9, 1890, in Selsey, England, to a well-to-do family. Her father, a clergyman, instilled in her a deep love of literature and language, while her mother, a strong and independent woman, influenced her feminist views.

Delafield's education was unconventional, with her early years spent in a convent school in France followed by home tutoring. This eclectic upbringing, coupled with her natural curiosity and sharp wit, shaped her into a keen observer of human nature and society's follies.

Literary Career and Social Commentary

Delafield began her writing career in the early 1920s, publishing short stories and essays in various periodicals. Her first novel, "Tension," was released in 1925, followed by a string of successful novels that established her reputation as a witty and insightful social commentator.

Delafield's works often featured independent female protagonists navigating the complexities of love, work, and societal expectations. Her novels were characterized by their sharp observations of human behavior, their satirical take on social norms, and their exploration of female identity and empowerment.

Notable Works and Themes

Among Delafield's most celebrated works is her semi-autobiographical novel "The Provincial Lady Letters" (1930), a collection of letters written by a middle-aged woman from the provinces to her niece in London. The novel's epistolary style and its protagonist's witty and self-deprecating observations struck a chord with readers, making it a bestseller and cementing Delafield's reputation as a master of social satire.

Another notable work is "Diary of a Provincial Lady" (1931), a sequel to "The Provincial Lady Letters" that continues the chronicle of the middle-aged woman's experiences as she moves to London. The novel explores themes of social class, gender roles, and the challenges of adapting to a new environment, all while maintaining Delafield's signature wit and insightful observations.

Personal Life and Legacy

Delafield's personal life was as unconventional as her writing. She married twice, but both marriages ended in divorce. She was also openly bisexual, a fact that was somewhat scandalous in her time. Despite facing societal challenges and personal struggles, Delafield remained a prolific writer throughout her life.

Delafield died on December 2, 1943, at the age of 53, from a combination of pneumonia and tuberculosis. Her legacy as a social commentator, satirist, and champion of female independence lives on through her works, which continue to entertain and provoke readers today.

Interesting Facts About E. M. Delafield

• Delafield was a passionate advocate for women's rights and suffrage, speaking out against gender inequality and discrimination.
• She was a keen observer of fashion and social etiquette, often using her writing to satirize the superficiality and absurdity of societal norms.
• Delafield was a prolific letter writer, corresponding with friends, family, and literary figures. Her letters offer valuable insights into her personality, her views on social issues, and her creative process.
• Despite her success as a writer, Delafield grappled with personal insecurities and self-doubt throughout her life.
• Delafield's works have been translated into numerous languages and continue to be enjoyed by readers worldwide.