Stanley and Elsie

After the First World War, artist Stanley Spencer is commissioned to paint a chapel in memory of a life lost in the war. He combines his own traumatic experiences with moments of everyday redemption to create his masterpiece. Elsie Munday, a housemaid, becomes entwined with the Spencer family, facing love, obsession, and temptation.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 368 pages
Publication date: 02 May 2019
Publisher: Prelude

The First World War has come to an end, and Stanley Spencer, an artist residing in a tranquil Hampshire village, is currently engaged in the creation of a remarkable commission. He is tasked with painting an entire chapel in memory of a life tragically lost in the war that was meant to bring an end to all conflicts. By seamlessly blending his personal traumatic experiences with moments of profound redemption, Stanley is poised to craft a masterpiece that will forever commemorate the life lost.

As fate would have it, Elsie Munday, a young woman seeking employment as a housemaid within the Spencer household, finds herself intertwined with the captivating and enigmatic Stanley, his artist wife Hilda, and their adorable daughter Shirin. Over time, Elsie dedicates herself to preserving the unity of the family, despite the impending threat posed by love, obsession, and temptation, which seem poised to tear them apart.

Within the confines of the Spencer household, a web of emotions and secrets unfolds. Stanley, known for his artistic brilliance, grapples with the demons of his past, while Hilda, driven by her love for her husband, supports him in his artistic endeavors. Shirin, the young daughter, grows up amidst the artistic atmosphere, her innocent eyes witnessing the transformative power of art.

As the years pass, Elsie becomes an integral part of the Spencer family, lending a helping hand in their daily lives and forming deep connections with each member. She becomes a source of solace and support, offering a listening ear and a compassionate heart to those in need. However, as the lines between love and loyalty begin to blur, Elsie finds herself caught in a web of conflicting emotions, torn between her duty to the family and her own desires.

Meanwhile, Stanley's artistic journey continues to flourish, with his paintings gaining recognition and acclaim worldwide. His work reflects the depth of his emotions and the struggles he has faced, capturing the essence of human resilience and the search for meaning in the face of adversity. However, his success also brings with it a sense of isolation and loneliness, as he struggles to connect with others on a deeper level.

As the chapel nears completion, Stanley's artistic vision comes to life, transforming the space into a sanctuary of beauty and contemplation. The walls are adorned with vibrant colors and intricate details, creating a sense of awe and wonder that resonates with all who enter. However, behind the scenes, Stanley is grappling with a sense of unease and uncertainty. He knows that the chapel will be a permanent reminder of the life lost in the war, and he wonders if he has done enough to honor the memory of the individual.

In a moment of introspection, Stanley decides to incorporate a special feature into the chapel. He invites Elsie to participate in the painting process, allowing her to contribute her own unique perspective and artistic touch to the masterpiece. As they work together, Stanley and Elsie discover a newfound sense of connection and understanding, as they share their own personal experiences and struggles.

Through their collaboration, Stanley and Elsie create a painting that not only pays tribute to the life lost in the war but also serves as a symbol of hope and healing. The chapel becomes a place of solace and inspiration for those who visit, offering a glimpse into the human spirit's resilience and the power of art to transcend tragedy.

In the end, the chapel becomes Stanley's masterpiece, a testament to his artistic talent and his deep connection with the human experience. It stands as a reminder of the sacrifices made in the name of peace and a symbol of the enduring power of love and redemption. As Elsie and Stanley continue to navigate the complexities of their relationship, they find solace in the knowledge that their artistic collaboration has created something truly special, a lasting legacy that will inspire generations to come.

Weight: 330g
Dimension: 193 x 124 x 28 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780715653685