As further evidence that I still have much to learn, I only found out today through a kind and informative Twitter comment that none of the original manuscripts of Jane Austen's six novels survived. We have just two alternative Persuasion chapters … [Read more...] about Losing my ignorance
Random musings
Everything from early-morning thoughts to late-night questions, with a small break for afternoon tea and cake.
The Mignonette challenge 1811/2021
When you write in a world built by another, you face various challenges. For example, you can never hope to match the genius of the original. Although...one reader insists my writing is better than in Pride and Prejudice. I take the opinion with a … [Read more...] about The Mignonette challenge 1811/2021
Polluting the shades of Rosings
Life often throws out fun coincidences. Only last year, I realised I was born on the 150th anniversary of the publication of Persuasion and Northanger Abbey. Another bit of Austen serendipity struck recently while researching for my next Charlotte … [Read more...] about Polluting the shades of Rosings
Team Mrs Bennet or Mr Bennet?
Mr Bennet was so odd a mixture of quick parts, sarcastic humour, reserve, and caprice that the experience of three and twenty years had been insufficient to make his wife understand his character. (Click here to view at the Probably at the … [Read more...] about Team Mrs Bennet or Mr Bennet?
Adventures with Austen’s cheesecakes
At Devizes we had comfortable rooms, & a good dinner to which we sat down about 5; amongst other things we had Asparagus & a Lobster which made me wish for you, & some cheesecakes on which the children made so delightful a supper as to … [Read more...] about Adventures with Austen’s cheesecakes
How many gowns?
Always assumed the loss of the Brownlow family fortune could be attributed to Great-Aunt Agatha's gin habit. Turns out it was a dressmaker's bill in Bath... … [Read more...] about How many gowns?