Quiet Assurance Of Charlotte Mew (Press, 16 October 1982)

The review by Heather McPherson of "Charlotte Mew: Collected Poems and Prose," edited by Vai Warner and published in 1982 by Virago, highlights the significant but often overlooked talent of the poet Charlotte Mew. Once admired by prominent figures like Virginia Woolf and Thomas Hardy, Mew's work has faded into relative obscurity since the last collection of her poems was published in the 1950s. McPherson expresses her enthusiasm in engaging with Mew's poetry, noting a blend of assured dramatic monologue and a natural, flowing voice. However, she observes that many of Mew's poems convey a muted and dreamlike quality, with themes of lost love and regret that often settle into a monotonous expression, lacking the depth to capture the complexities of emotion. Among her well-known works, McPherson finds "The Farmer's Bride" to lean towards sentimentality rather than impactful resonance. She critiques the authenticity of Mew's use of male personas in certain poems, suggesting that they may feel unconvincing. Yet, she praises Mew’s strongest pieces, such as "The Quiet House" and "Madelein At Church," for their freshness and original touch, while noting that "The Trees are Down" retains a timeless quality that could resonate with contemporary readers. McPherson also explores Mew's short stories, which she believes display greater vitality and subtlety compared to her poetry. One particularly notable story, "Mark Stafford’s Wife," is described as allegorical regarding Mew's literary journey, showcasing an understanding of the sacrifices involved in becoming the wife of a notable man. While some tales, like "Passed," stray into horror, others, such as "The China Bowl," feature complex characters and themes of societal greed. The review delves into Mew's relationship with themes of femininity and societal expectations, noting her complexities as an "advanced" woman of her time. She tended to portray more fragile, childlike women in her work, reflecting both herself and the challenges women of her era faced. McPherson suggests that Mew's potential as a significant poet was stifled by societal constraints and personal struggles, including the fear stemming from her family's mental health history. Ultimately, McPherson believes that Mew's oeuvre deserves recognition and revival, aligning her with the concept of "survivors." Despite the hardships and the silence that marked her later life, Mew’s talent has been brought back into the light through this collected edition. The review serves as an appeal for a re-evaluation of Mew's work and for acknowledgment of her contributions to poetry and literature, especially at a time when feminist perspectives are gaining traction.

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