Summary:
"Twilight Sleep" by Edith Wharton is a novel written in the early 20th century. This work delves into the complexities of society and family life in post-World War I America, focusing on themes such as societal expectations, personal fulfillment, and the challenges of modern relationships. Central characters include Nona Manford, a young woman navigating her family's high demands in a bustling New York, and her mother, Pauline Manford, who juggles her altruistic pursuits with family responsibilities. The opening of "Twilight Sleep" introduces us to Nona Manford as she attempts to engage with her mother, Pauline, who is overwhelmed by a packed schedule of social obligations and personal commitments. Nona’s frustration is palpable as she navigates her mother’s prioritization of social duties over family connections. The narrative sets a tone of conflict between the aspirations of the younger generation, represented by Nona, and the established routines of the older generation, embodied by her mother. As Nona reflects on her family dynamics and her own sense of self within this intricate social tapestry, the stage is set for deeper explorations of identity and societal pressures throughout the novel. (This is an automatically generated summary.)