Late & Soon

E. M. Delafield's 'Late & Soon' offers readers a captivating glimpse into the intricacies of English upper-class society during the early 20th century. Delafield's literary style is characterized by sharp wit, poignant social commentary, and a keen eye for detail. The narrative unfolds through the lens of the protagonist, who navigates societal expectations, familial dynamics, and personal desires in a world shaped by tradition and conformity. Delafield's writing is both satirical and introspective, inviting readers to reflect on timeless themes of identity, class, and individual agency. 'Late & Soon' stands out for its nuanced character development and insightful portrayal of the nuances of human behavior. It is a compelling exploration of the tensions between personal fulfillment and societal expectations, making it a significant contribution to the literary canon. Fans of classic English literature and those interested in social commentary will find 'Late & Soon' a rewarding and thought-provoking read.

E. M. Delafield, pen name for Edmée Elizabeth Monica Dashwood, née de la Pasture (1890–1943), was an illustrious English author best known for her wittily incisive portrayal of middle-class life in the early 20th century. Daughter of the novelist Mrs. Henry de la Pasture, Delafield began her literary career following service in the Voluntary Aid Detachment during World War I. With a deft pen, she invites her readers into the introspective lives of her characters, exploring themes of domesticity, social stratification, and womanhood. Delafield's most celebrated work, 'Diary of a Provincial Lady' (1930), chronicles the comically trivial tribulations of a country housewife, establishing her legacy as a preeminent figure in British humor and literature. Her work 'Late & Soon' (1943) marks another significant entry in her oeuvre, where she adeptly examines the nuanced shifts in the societal landscape of post-war England through the personal and emotional reckonings of her protagonists. Delafield's literary style, characterized by its acerbic wit and keen observational acumen, secures her a distinguished position amidst the canon of female writers who masterfully articulated the undercurrents of the interwar period in British society.