Quartet for Beginners

In this autobiographical novel by the author of Wide Sargasso Sea, a young expat in Paris finds herself caught between her lover and his wife. Set in the bohemian café society of 1920s Paris, Quartet tells the story of Marya Zelli, a young woman who finds herself alone and adrift when her art dealer husband is arrested.

At her husband's insistence, Marya goes to live with a friendly English couple. However, when Marya becomes entangled in the intimate lives of her hosts, she has no way out. The desperate situation turns explosive when her husband is released from prison.

Jean Rhys's debut novel, Quartet, won international acclaim when it was originally published in 1928. The novel is loosely based on Rhys's own extramarital affair with Ford Madox Ford, which took place while her then-husband Jean Lenglet was in prison.

The novel's setting in the bohemian café society of 1920s Paris adds a vibrant and atmospheric backdrop to the story. Marya, the protagonist, is a young and vulnerable woman who finds herself in a complex and compromising situation. As she navigates the intricacies of her relationships with her husband and the English couple, the narrative explores themes of betrayal, isolation, and the consequences of personal choices.

Rhys's writing style is evocative and lyrical, drawing the reader into the world of her characters and their emotional turmoil. The novel's exploration of the power dynamics between the individuals involved, and the ways in which they manipulate and betray one another, creates a sense of tension and unease that permeates the narrative.

Quartet is a poignant and insightful work that delves into the complexities of human relationships and the impact of societal expectations on individual lives. Rhys's autobiographical elements lend an authenticity to the story, making it a compelling and thought-provoking read.

The novel's enduring popularity and critical acclaim are a testament to Rhys's skill as a writer and her ability to craft a deeply resonant and emotionally engaging narrative. Quartet remains a significant work in the canon of 20th-century literature, offering readers a rich and immersive exploration of the human experience.

product information: