Meanwhile

The Picture of a Lady

This novel is split into two parts, „The Utopographer in the Garden” and „Advent”. The former is set on the Italian Riviera where the novel’s central figures, a British couple, The Rylands, entertain guests. The latter, written largely in the form of letters between the couple during the husband’s trip to London, provides commentary on British political landscape of the 1920’s. A pretty good book, detailed discussions on Socialism, Communism, Utopia and so on. This novel was written by Wells after being inspired by an unknown lady that he saw in the garden of La Mortola in Ventimiglia. It sprang into existence without any forethought, and offers a unique insight into the mind of this accomplished author. The narrative is quite slow, and it’s a very good story, which will push you to think more.