17 Aug Book Review of Square Haunting: Five Writers in London Between the War…
Finding Autonomy in the Avenues of History: A Review of Square Haunting: Five Writers in London Between the Wars by Francesca Wade
When I first stumbled upon Square Haunting: Five Writers in London Between the Wars, I was instantly drawn to its intriguing premise: a deep dive into the lives of five remarkable women who inhabited Mecklenburgh Square, each carving out their own spaces of autonomy in a world still wrapped in the confines of patriarchy. Francesca Wade’s exploration felt not just necessary but a delightful invitation into a past that resonates with the challenge of defining oneself amidst societal expectations.
The book examines the lives of Eileen Power, Jane Harrison, Hilda Doolittle (HD), Dorothy L. Sayers, and Virginia Woolf, each represented with grace and depth. What I found particularly captivating was the exploration of female autonomy—a theme that resonates powerfully even today. Each woman, in her unique way, challenged the notions of what it meant to be a writer, a thinker, and a woman during a period of seismic change. I’ve always admired Eileen Power’s historical work, and Wade’s portrayal reminded me why I was so drawn to her scholarship since the 1970s. Power’s desire for self-determination is evident in her joyful declaration about finding a home with a garden view, captioned beautifully with her longing for friendship while also craving solitude.
The narrative flows as a collection of essays rather than a cohesive biography, weaving in and out of the lives and ideas that occupied this literary hub. Each chapter serves as a moment of transition for these women, revealing both their personal struggles and triumphs. Wade’s prose is smooth and evocative, maintaining an engaging pace that keeps the reader’s curiosity piqued. The connections she draws between these women are insightful—particularly how Harrison’s scholarly work impacted Woolf, infusing her narratives with a subversive view of history. I found myself reflecting on the complexities of their relationships; in this world of budding independence, the lines of friendship blurred into shared intellectual paths.
One memorable quote that stuck with me is Woolf’s sentiment about “street sauntering and square haunting.” It encapsulates not only the physical geography of their lives but also represents a deeper quest for connection and understanding within the confines of societal norms. The simple act of wandering—both literally and metaphorically—becomes a powerful motif of navigating one’s inner and outer worlds, which I found incredibly poignant.
While I sensed some awkwardness in how the connections between the women were drawn—sometimes feeling tenuous—I still found enough intrigue in each essay to keep my attention. The delicate balancing act of celebrating their individual stories while drawing parallels between them is commendable.
For readers who find themselves curious about the intersections of literary history and gender autonomy, this book is a treasure. Whether you’re an admirer of Woolf or a newcomer eager to learn about lesser-known figures like Power and Harrison, Square Haunting offers a rich tapestry of voices and insights that illuminate the struggles and aspirations of women who sought to redefine their roles in a changing world.
In reflection, this reading experience left me not only more knowledgeable but invigorated by the stories of these women. Their tenacity and desire to carve out spaces for themselves remind us of the ongoing journey toward autonomy that many continue to navigate today.
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