Love in the Blitz: A Woman in a World Turned Upside Down

Eileen Alexander's letters offer a unique snapshot of life during the Blitz, combining the intimacy and wit of a Second World War Bridget Jones with the poetry of a wartime poet. She had just been injured in a car crash and had ambitions of studying further, but her letters reveal a love story and a profound sense of humor.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 432 pages
Publication date: 27 May 2021
Publisher: HarperCollins Publishers

Eileen Alexander's voice is a captivating blend of intelligence, allusiveness, iconoclasm, and intensity, offering a unique perspective on life during the Blitz. Through her letters, she provides a personal and unfiltered account of the events as they unfolded and were experienced, devoid of propaganda. Born in 1913, Alexander grew up in London and graduated from Cambridge in 1939. She had just been involved in a car crash, which left her with a lasting injury, and she had ambitions of furthering her studies and contributing to society.

Despite her reservations about marriage, Alexander fell in love amidst the chaos of the Blitz. She found solace in poetry and used it as a source of inspiration in her letters to her beloved, whom she referred to as "darling." Her letters offer a captivating love story and a rare glimpse into the home front during World War II. They resurrect the voice of a profoundly funny writer, showcasing Alexander's wit and humor even in the most challenging circumstances.

In one of her letters, written in 1941, Alexander ponders what someone would think if they stumbled upon her letters and read them in chronological order. She humorously suggests that they would conclude that she had never lived until she loved, a statement that rings true in the context of her letters. Through her words, Alexander captures the essence of the human experience, from the depths of love and loss to the resilience and humor that emerge in the face of adversity.

Eileen Alexander's letters are a testament to the power of storytelling and the enduring impact of history. They offer a glimpse into a bygone era and a reminder of the sacrifices made by individuals during times of war. Alexander's voice remains a captivating and unforgettable testament to the human spirit and the enduring power of love.

Weight: 320g
Dimension: 196 x 496 x 31 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780008311247