Late and Soon (ePub)

E.M. Delafield, a pseudonym for Edmée Elizabeth Monica Dashwood, née de la Pasture (1890-1943), remains a celebrated English novelist and diarist known for her subtle wit and keen observations of domestic life. Delafield rose to prominence primarily through her contributions to the celebrated 'Provincial Lady' series, which offered a humorous chronicle of the daily tribulations of an upper-middle-class Englishwoman. However, her literary prowess extends beyond this series, embracing a broader repertoire of themes as showcased in novels such as 'Late and Soon' (1943), where Delafield navigates the complexities of human relationships set against the backdrop of World War II. With a literary style that seamlessly weaves irony and social commentary, her work often struck a chord with contemporary audiences, by portraying the personal within the framework of the poignant social issues of her time. Delafield's contributions to literature are not limited to humor and societal critique, as her body of work, which encompasses over 30 novels, also explores the internal landscapes of her characters' lives-often drawing upon her own experiences as a daughter, wife, and mother. She was a Major in the Voluntary Aid Detachment and her experiences certainly influenced her writing. Though her work provides a valuable snapshot of the changing roles of women in early 20th-century Britain, the resonance of her themes continues to garner appreciation among modern readers.