A Different Sound: Stories by Mid-Century Women Writers

This collection of short stories from the 1940s and 1950s explores the tension between personal desires and social change, featuring works by renowned women writers and recently rediscovered voices. The stories are filled with tension and longing, offering a window into a remarkable era of writing.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 272 pages
Publication date: 29 February 2024
Publisher: Pushkin Press

In the 1940s and 50s, a remarkable era of writing emerged, showcasing the struggles of women and men caught between personal desires and profound social change. From the remote peninsula of Cornwall to the opulent drawing rooms of the British Raj, domestic arrangements were rewritten, social customs were revoked, and new freedoms were embraced. This collection, curated by writer and critic Lucy Scholes, presents a selection of works from renowned female writers alongside recently rediscovered voices. These short stories, brimming with tension and longing, offer a captivating window into this remarkable era of writing.

The Cut Finger by Frances Bellerby:
Set in a remote village in Cornwall, The Cut Finger tells the story of a young woman named Mary, who is torn between her love for a local fisherman and her desire to pursue a career as a writer. When her finger is accidentally cut by a fishing hook, Mary's life takes a dramatic turn, leading her to confront the societal expectations and gender roles that bind her.

Summer Night by Elizabeth Bowen:
In Summer Night, Elizabeth Bowen explores the complex relationship between a young man named David and his aunt, Augusta. As David spends his summer vacation with Augusta, he becomes increasingly aware of the tensions and secrets that lurk within their household. Bowen's portrayal of the social and emotional dynamics of the time is nuanced and evocative.

The Birds by Daphne du Maurier:
Daphne du Maurier's The Birds is a classic horror story that takes place in a small town in California. When a series of strange bird attacks begins, the townspeople become increasingly paranoid and fearful. Du Maurier's portrayal of the human psyche in the face of terror is masterful, and the story remains a chilling testament to the power of fear.

The Land Girl by Diana Gardner:
The Land Girl is a poignant tale of a young woman named Sarah, who leaves her rural upbringing to work as a farm laborer in England during World War II. As Sarah struggles to adapt to her new life, she forms a deep bond with the land and the people she meets. Gardner's portrayal of the hardships and sacrifices of war is powerful, and the story offers a poignant reflection on the human cost of conflict.

Listen to the Magnolias by Stella Gibbons:
Listen to the Magnolias is a delightful comedy of manners set in a small English village in the 1930s. Stella Gibbons's portrayal of the social and cultural norms of the time is hilarious, and the story offers a lighthearted yet insightful look at the complexities of human relationships.

Shocking Weather, Isn't It? by Inez Holden:
In Shocking Weather, Isn't It?, Inez Holden explores the tensions and conflicts that arise in a small English village during a heatwave. Holden's portrayal of the villagers' reactions to the sudden change in weather is nuanced and realistic, and the story offers a poignant reflection on the human capacity for adaptation and resilience.

The First Party by Attia Hosain:
The First Party is a powerful story of a young woman named Amina, who returns to her native Pakistan after spending years in England. As Amina struggles to adapt to her new surroundings, she becomes increasingly aware of the social and political tensions that exist in her homeland. Hosain's portrayal of the complexities of cultural identity and the challenges of belonging is nuanced and thought-provoking.

Three Miles Up by Elizabeth Jane Howard:
Three Miles Up is a haunting tale of a young woman named Mary, who moves to a remote village in England with her husband. As Mary begins to suspect that something sinister is happening in the village, she becomes increasingly isolated and paranoid. Howard's portrayal of the psychological effects of isolation and paranoia is masterful, and the story offers a chilling reminder of the dangers of living in a remote community.

The Skylight by Penelope Mortimer:
The Skylight is a poignant story of a young woman named Lizzie, who is diagnosed with a terminal illness. As Lizzie struggles to come to terms with her impending death, she forms a deep bond with her husband and her young son. Mortimer's portrayal of the emotional and psychological toll of illness is powerful, and the story offers a touching reflection on the importance of love and family.

The Thames Spread Out by Elizabeth Taylor:
The Thames Spread Out is a lyrical meditation on the beauty and complexity of the Thames River. Elizabeth Taylor's portrayal of the river's changing seasons and its impact on the people and animals that live along its banks is exquisite, and the story offers a profound appreciation for the natural world.

Scorched Earth Policy by Sylvia Townsend Warner:
Scorched Earth Policy is a satirical novel that takes place in a dystopian future. Sylvia Townsend Warner's portrayal of a society that has lost its sense of morality and values is dark and humorless, and the story offers a cautionary tale about the dangers of unchecked power and greed.

In conclusion, these remarkable short stories from the 1940s and 50s offer a captivating glimpse into the struggles and triumphs of women and men during a period of profound social change. From the remote corners of Cornwall to the opulent drawing rooms of the British Raj, these stories showcase the resilience and adaptability of the human spirit, as well as the power of literature to capture the essence of a remarkable era.

Weight: 240g
Dimension: 200 x 130 x 22 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781782278498