Waves

The Waves is a novel by Virginia Woolf that explores the lives of six friends from childhood to middle age, featuring interconnected monologues and evocative descriptions of the seaside. It was a commercial and critical success when it was first published in 1931 and is now considered one of Woolf's most ambitious works, showcasing her Modernist narrative techniques.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 256 pages
Publication date: 13 December 2018
Publisher: Alma Books Ltd

The Waves, a captivating novel, unfolds through a series of interconnected monologues, delving into the lives of six distinct individuals: Bernard, Louis, Neville, Jinny, Susan, and Rhoda. As these characters progress from childhood to middle age, their personal narratives intertwine, creating a poignant tapestry of human experience. Interwoven with evocative descriptions of the seaside at various times of day, these personal histories coalesce into a poetic masterpiece that showcases Virginia Woolf's exceptional Modernist narrative techniques.

Published in 1931, The Waves achieved both commercial and critical success, cementing its place as one of Virginia Woolf's most ambitious works. It is now regarded by many as her magnum opus, showcasing her mastery of narrative and her visionary perspective on everyday life.

Through its lyrical prose and innovative storytelling, The Waves offers a profound exploration of the human condition. It delves into themes of love, loss, identity, and the complexities of interpersonal relationships. The characters, each with their unique struggles and triumphs, come to life on the pages, eliciting empathy and understanding from the reader.

Woolf's Modernist narrative techniques are evident throughout the novel. She employs stream of consciousness, non-linear storytelling, and multiple perspectives to create a rich and immersive experience. The Waves challenges traditional narrative structures and encourages the reader to engage with the text on a deeper level, exploring the subconscious and the complexities of human consciousness.

One of the novel's most striking features is its portrayal of the seaside. Woolf's descriptions of the ocean, the waves, and the changing light of day are vivid and evocative, transporting the reader to the coastal landscape. These descriptions serve as a metaphor for the characters' emotional journeys, as they navigate the ups and downs of life and confront their inner demons.

The Waves is not just a novel about individuals; it is also a commentary on society and the human condition. Woolf's observations on class, gender, and social norms are thought-provoking and relevant to contemporary readers. She challenges traditional notions of morality and explores the complexities of human relationships in a society that is constantly evolving.

In conclusion, The Waves is a masterpiece of literature that continues to resonate with readers today. Through its interconnected monologues, evocative descriptions, and innovative narrative techniques, it offers a profound exploration of the human experience. Virginia Woolf's vision and lyrical prose make this novel a timeless masterpiece that continues to inspire and challenge us.

Weight: 228g
Dimension: 128 x 197 x 22 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781847497819