Louis Bromfield Libri

Ya en la primera página de esta espléndida novela vamos a conocer a Susie Parkington, que a sus ochenta y cuatro años se viste para la cena de Navidad en una mansión de Manhattan. Corren los años posteriores a la gran crisis de 1929, pero su patrimonio ha resistido los peores embates gracias a la astucia de Gus Parkington, que murió hace años. Cuando por fin la señora entra en el salón para tomar el aperitivo con hijos y nietos, el espectáculo es patético: quien no se desmoronado y aniquilado bajo el peso del aburrimiento, se ha casado de la peor manera; quien no ha robado, traficando con acciones de poco valor e hinchando el mercado con promesas falsas, se ha dejado estafar persiguiendo quimeras, y todos aguardan con cierta impaciencia que la mujer descanse en paz y la herencia se reparta, pero tendrán que esperar: Susie sigue firme, al mando, procurando que el futuro sea un lugar donde el trabajo honesto tenga un sentido. Esa mujer fuerte e inteligente, que gobierna las intrigas de Wall Street y camina por las calles de Nueva York de principios del siglo XX, podría ser la protagonista de una novela de Edith Wharton, pero bien mirado es una mujer de hoy: su mundo es el nuestro, la corrupción casi la misma, y lo que de verdad ha variado es el largo de nuestras faldas.

The narrative unfolds a gripping saga centered on a family's dramatic decline from prominence, exploring themes of ambition, betrayal, and the consequences of power. As the story reveals the intricate dynamics within the family, it delves into the personal and societal factors that contribute to their downfall. The Pulitzer Prize-winning work captures the emotional turmoil and resilience of its characters, offering a profound commentary on the fragility of success and the enduring impact of choices made over generations.

She was a woman met once and remembered always. She came from nowhere to dazzle three continents. She played many games --- and played for keeps. She was beautiful but smart, a shrewd speculator in money and men. She knew what she wanted until she met the man who despised her.

Set against the backdrop of rural Midland County, the narrative explores the tension between traditional agricultural life and the encroaching forces of urban industrialism. The story delves into the struggles of local farmers as they confront economic pressures and environmental changes brought by industrial growth. Through vivid character portrayals and rich descriptions of the landscape, the book highlights the resilience of the community and the impact of modernization on their way of life. Themes of conflict, adaptation, and the preservation of heritage are central to this compelling tale.

As a continuation of themes explored in Pleasant Valley, this book deepens Louis Bromfield's exploration of agriculture and economics while emphasizing the importance of home. It provides insights into sustainable farming practices and the relationship between land stewardship and community well-being, reflecting Bromfield's commitment to both environmental and social issues.