The Awakening and other Selected Stories (Reader's Library Classics)

This classic story haunts me. It is set in the late 19th century in the social cultural livelihood of creole well to do families of New Orleans. The nuances of living with privilege and social rules that guide daily and life choices. The style of writing reminds me of the early American author writing style of the time. Refrained and subtle in polite prose. I wanted to see the faces of these people, however Chopin ensures to describe the facial expression which often remain contained and controlled. She ensures the reader understands the value of decorum and polite society drives the story. In the introduction by Elaine Showalter the era is described at length with the 'awakening' of Edna and to her final act of freedom. The conflict for me, is the characters all hold back. No one wants to open up or allow any thoughts or feelings that will challenge that which is safe and trusted. Edna's journey is a clumsy as a young teenage girl and touching at the same time. I feel her idealistic take on everything will collapse around her, and I read on to the moment she confronts that which she cannot change or live with. Beautifully written in the prose of the time, Chopin gives us a snapshot of how times were in the very early stages of change in American society. The Gilded Age brought to an end and with it the trappings for society on women. Or has it? I feel I understand Edna and even in my 50's I recognize the bonds that constrain society and women more specially in American Society. This book is an excellent read for anyone that is also going through an Awakening.

I enjoyed the book. I'm trying to find a way to communicate regarding the meeting. I was unable to find out how to join, or ask anyone about it.

It was my first time reading a classics for the first time since high school. I enjoyed it I loved the main character and that she became opinionated and was trying to change her life. It just made me so sad to read the ending I wasn’t expecting that. I couldn’t put it down once I read it.