JULY BOOK CLUB: VIRGINIA WOOLF'S 'MRS. DALLOWAY'

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Image: Penguin Books Australia.

Our May Book Club pick is Virginia Woolf’s Mrs. Dalloway.

This month’s book club pick is a special selection, we’re celebrating 100 years of publication for the classic Mrs. Dalloway by Virgina Woolf.

Mrs. Dalloway encapsulates the very essence of 1925, the dynamic post war for both men and women at the time. There’s an almost lyrical quality to her words. Painting a vivid picture in both description and imagery, particularly in the scenes portraying fact of life moments.

Woolf’s observations and deductions captivate, and you find this is well achieved in every character. Ultimately It’s transporting, the way she links recollections to the moments that are occurring. We go from whimsy descriptions to almost matter-of-fact descriptions. The prose at times really is so beautiful, almost melodic. For example, page twenty; the way it’s written truly captures the essence of the moment.

Woolf comments on society, particularly the expectations people have on each other - and therefore their preconceived notions. Suggesting they then push those ideas on what they think each person is, even though in most circumstances it’s in complete contrast to how they feel. This comes down to appearances and making judgements on who they think each person is, and what they encompass or think they are. Ultimately commenting on the psychology of people and life. Focusing on society and how roles play an importance in this.

I found myself reflecting on the thought of what a modern author would capture in the present? How this was obviously something from 100 years ago, what is the equivalent today? Send us your recommendations on an author who comments on society, reflecting on the trivialities of current everyday life. Especially considering how different the landscape is.

Virginia Woolf’s Mrs. Dalloway is available through Penguin Books Australia.