The reviewer discusses the life and work of Mary Wesley, highlighting her unique writing style and the themes she explored in her novels. They appreciate her ability to create complex characters and her frank portrayal of relationships and sexuality. The reviewer also mentions Wesley's late start in her writing career and the impact of her personal experiences on her work.
The reviewer delves into the life and literary contributions of Mary Wesley, an author they greatly admire. Wesley's writing is characterized by its unique style, which focuses on dialogue, dark humor, and a frank attitude towards sexuality. The reviewer appreciates how Wesley's novels explore the complexities of relationships and the impact of World War II on her characters. They also highlight Wesley's late start in her writing career, noting that she published her first novel at the age of 70 and continued to write prolifically until her death. The reviewer finds Wesley's personal experiences to be a significant influence on her work, adding depth and authenticity to her stories. They also mention the biography 'Wild Mary' by Patrick Marnham, which provides further insight into Wesley's life and character.
Quick quotes
Why did I not do more in my life, I ask myself, as I read the obituaries of the people who have crammed their lives with 'doing' while I have wasted great chunks of mine dreaming?
Wesley’s writing is not one for fans of vivid description: her novels contain a lot of dialogue and quirky, often dark humour, plus a frank attitude to sexuality.
Mary Wesley was the third child of Colonel Harold Mynors Farmar and his wife, Violet. Born in Englefield Green, Windsor Great Park, she hardly knew her father and held the strong belief that her mother favoured her elder sister.