THE SCARLET TREE

by Sir Osbert Sitwell ‧ RELEASE DATE: June 20, 1946

Sequel to Left Hand, Right Hand (1944), this continues the elegant, leisurely, jealous lingering on time past, the break with Victorianism and the development of the Edwardian age. With the Sargent portrait that ended the first book, typifying all that went before, this shows the changes that occurred in the family, as well as in the world, further delineates members of the gifted family, and adds to the gallery. Oebert traces progress from nurse to governess to tutor; then school, where misery was his portion; a pathetic picture of his parents' efforts to make his sister Edith conform to the model of the day; loving emphasis on his brother, Sacheverell's growing observation and companionship. Then comes change, with his father's failing health, his mother's now attitude towards her children, the innumerable relatives and friends, servants and companions in their lives. There is domestic chitchat and literary commentary:- ambulatory progression from every kind of springboard...All overlaid with a glossy patina of cultivated writing, with an ingratiating snob appeal. Intellectual market.

Pub Date: June 20, 1946

ISBN: N/A

Page Count: -

Publisher: Little, Brown

Review Posted Online: N/A

Kirkus Reviews Issue: June 1, 1946

Categories: NONFICTION