56 pages • 1 hour read
Willa CatherA Lost Lady
Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 1923A modern alternative to SparkNotes and CliffsNotes, SuperSummary offers high-quality Study Guides with detailed chapter summaries and analysis of major themes, characters, and more.
Before You Read
Super Short Summary
A Lost Lady by Willa Cather, published in 1923, tells the story of Marian Forrester as seen through Niel Herbert, a young boy in the railroad town of Sweet Water. Set in the late 19th century, the novel explores the decline of the Forresters' social and financial status, mirroring the broader transition from the pioneer era to a more exploitative capitalist society. The narrative highlights Marian's charm and the impact of the changing times on her and those around her.
Reviews & Readership
Review Roundup
Willa Cather's A Lost Lady is celebrated for its evocative prose and rich portrayal of pioneer life, with critics praising its central themes of nostalgia and change. Some find the character development lacking depth, though, and the pacing occasionally slow. Overall, it remains a cherished classic offering poignant insights into human nature and societal transitions.
Who Should Read A Lost Lady?
A reader who enjoys A Lost Lady by Willa Cather likely appreciates nuanced character studies and themes of change and decay. Fans of Edith Wharton's The Age of Innocence and F. Scott Fitzgerald's The Great Gatsby will find appeal in its exploration of societal shifts and personal disillusionment.