Review: All prospective writers should study Edith Wharton
Rating: 5 out of 5
Date: 05 19, 2014
The Age of Innocence is one of my favorite Edith Wharton novels, and as a Pulitzer winner, showcases what makes her writing brilliant. Don't be deceived by the simplistic words, like Mark Twain, Wharton knows how to put more power in ten words than others put in a hundred word paragraph.Having lived in NYC, I loved her depiction of the upper crust of society and albeit this is told in 1800s, one still understands life among the sinfully wealthy, high society.Don't expect to breeze through this novel, but do expect to experience the greatness of a writer of classics who capably takes you back to that era with her brilliant turn of phrase. Unless you are a blue blood, you won't comprehend all of Wharton's references (at least I never have), but these are unfamiliar customs to middle class, and indicative of those times, not so much today.You will love feeling part of this circle, and regret saying farewell to May Welland, Archer Newland, and Countess Ellen Olenska among many others. Their lives refreshed my memory on how great characters are developed by great writers. Memorable, but don't be expecting a joyful, humorous tale. Highly recommended!