It’s my first time reading stories by Katherine Mansfield: thank you, little clothbound Penguins, for being so pretty and triggering my collectionism.
The prose is gorgeous and, after reading Shirley Jackson‘s short stories, you can appreciate the different twist this incredible modernist author gives to her celebration of everyday life and human mood.
My favourite story has to be “The Daughters of the Late Colonel”, in which two ladies come to terms with the grief and freedom and disconcertment that come from the death of their oppressive father. “The Little Governess” is a punch in the stomach and so relatable for any woman who has ever travelled alone. “Je ne parle pas français” is a masterpiece in making you hate the narrating voice. And I see why “The Garden Party” is one of her most acclaimed works.
But if you want to understand the mood you’ll find in these stories, just read “Bliss”, the titular short story, and see how a woman’s perfect day can take a turn.
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