That Which Hath Wings: A Novel of the Day
Written by Richard Dehan
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About this book
Reading guide
Themes, characters and key ideas in That Which Hath Wings: A Novel of the Day, written by Chaptra AI.
- about 8 hours
- intermediate
- romantic
- poignant
- historical
“That Which Hath Wings: A Novel of the Day” by Richard Dehan is an early 20th-century novel set in January 1914, just before the outbreak of World War I. The story centers on the passionate romance and subsequent trials of newlyweds Francis, Viscount Norwater, and his wife Margot. Their vibrant courtship and idyllic life within a glamorous, albeit superficial, social scene are quickly challenged by Margot's profound struggle with the concept of impending motherhood and the weight of societal expectations. The narrative explores the complexities of their relationship through poignant conversations, juxtaposing their personal dilemmas against the ominous backdrop of a world on the brink of war, thereby examining love, societal norms, and the fragility of peace.
“No specific quotes are available from the provided summary. However, based on the description, key quotes would likely include poignant dialogues between Francis and Margot about their future and Margot's feelings on motherhood, reflections on the superficiality of their social circle, and foreshadowing remarks about the impending global conflict.”
Key themes
- Motherhood and Female Agency
- This is a central theme, explored through Margot's profound struggle with the idea of impending motherhood. It delves into the societal pressures on women in the early 20th century to fulfill traditional roles, particularly procreation, and how these expectations clash with individual desires or anxieties. The theme questions the extent of female autonomy and the personal cost of conforming versus resisting.
- Love, Marriage, and Reality
- The novel begins with a 'passionate romance' and an 'idyllic life,' suggesting an exploration of how idealized love and marriage confront the realities of life, personal struggles, and external pressures. It examines whether love is enough to overcome profound personal conflicts and societal demands, and how a relationship matures beyond initial infatuation.
- The Shadow of War and Societal Change
- Set in January 1914, the novel uses the impending World War I as a significant backdrop, hinting at its transformative impact on individual lives and society at large. This theme explores how personal dramas unfold against the canvas of monumental historical events, and how the fragility of peace—both personal and global—affects human choices and destinies.
Worth discussing
How does the novel portray the societal expectations placed upon women, particularly regarding marriage and motherhood, in early 20th-century England?
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