'Daughter of Today' Summary

Elfrida Bell, a young American woman, escapes the constraints of her Midwestern upbringing and embarks on a quest for artistic fulfillment and independence in Paris. She immerses herself in the world of art and literature, embracing the aesthetics of the fin-de-siècle and the ideals of the “New Woman.” Moving on to London, Elfrida enters the competitive world of journalism, encountering both opportunities and limitations imposed by societal norms. Throughout her adventures, Elfrida grapples with the complexities of relationships, both romantic and platonic, with friends and rivals who share her thirst for individuality and self-expression. Her journey is marked by both triumphs and disappointments, as she navigates the evolving cultural landscape and the challenges of carving a unique path for herself in a world that still prioritizes traditional expectations. “A Daughter of Today” is a captivating exploration of the yearnings and struggles of a young woman seeking to define herself in a society undergoing rapid transformation.