Lessing, Doris: 1919 - 2013
The Grandmothers, 2003 - Information about the Book
- General Information | Facts | Author | Commentary | Reviews | Explanations
- General Information
- A colletion of four short novels
- Information from Wikipedia
- Doris Lessing was inspired to write "The Grandmothers" by her lifelong exploration of human relationships, societal dynamics, and the complexities of individual choices.
In “The Reason for It,” she examines the collapse of a utopian society, reflecting her concern with cultural erosion and the loss of values like literacy and truth.
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- Facts
- Awards: "The Grandmothers" hasn't received any awards.
- Ageing and Memory
The novellas depict the complex relationship between ageing and memory, particularly for the grandmother characters. As they grow older, their personal memories and secrets from the past become more significant, shaping their identities and relationships with younger generations. The grandmothers grapple with revealing or concealing these formative experiences.Passion vs Social Norms
Forbidden passion and love affairs that defy societal norms are central storylines, especially in the title novella where the grandmothers engage in taboo relationships with their teenage sons. Lessing examines how intense emotions can clash with cultural beliefs and expectations.Generational Divides
The collection highlights rifts between older and younger generations, with grandparents overprotecting descendants by withholding personal histories, while the youth disregard the elderly as outdated in the modern consumerist world. Communication breakdowns across generations are poignantly portrayed.Parental Roles and Influence
The narratives focus on parents and grandparents grappling with how to nurture and guide the next generations, as their actions and choices profoundly shape their children's lives, sometimes in unintended ways. The limits of parental influence are also explored.In summary, The Grandmothers meditates on ageing, memory, passion, generational gaps, and the complex roles parents play in molding their offspring's identities and paths.
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- "The Grandmothers" generally received mixed to positive reviews. Doris Lessing is celebrated for her lucid and evocative prose, and "The Grandmothers" is no exception. Critics praised her ability to delve into complex human emotions and relationships with nuance and depth.
Reviewers noted her skill in crafting multi-dimensional, flawed individuals whose motivations and actions drive the narrative in compelling ways.
While some appreciated the bold and unconventional storyline, others found it unsettling or difficult to engage with. The explicit content and moral ambiguity left some readers divided in their opinions.
"The Grandmothers" holds a significant place in contemporary literature. It contributes to the broader understanding of Lessing's oeuvre and continues to be analyzed and discussed in literary circles.
Overall, "The Grandmothers" is viewed as a powerful and provocative piece that showcases Doris Lessing's literary prowess, even as it challenges readers with its controversial themes and complex character dynamics.
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- Author
- Doris Lessing, discusses the real stories behind her fiction. Bookworm with Michael Silverblatt; April 01, 2004
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- Doris Lessing, discusses the real stories behind her fiction. Bookworm with Michael Silverblatt; April 01, 2004
- Commentary
- Doris Lessing’s "The Grandmothers" is a provocative exploration of unconventional relationships, human desires, and moral ambiguities. The novel intricately examines the lives of two lifelong friends, Roz and Lil, who engage in complex romantic relationships with each other's sons. Lessing masterfully portrays their emotional entanglements, creating a narrative that challenges societal norms and raises questions about love, loyalty, and the nature of familial bonds. The story unfolds with an understated intensity, highlighting the blurred lines between passion and responsibility. Lessing’s prose is sharp and evocative, offering profound insights into human vulnerability and the choices that define our lives. By delving into taboo themes, she invites readers to reflect on the nuances of human relationships, free from judgment. Ultimately, "The Grandmothers" is a bold and thought-provoking exploration of love's unconventional forms and its consequences.Developed by AI
- Reviews
- Audio (1:57)
Alan Cheuse Reviews 'The Grandmothers'. He says two of the four novellas show Lessing at her best. NPR Radio; January 16, 2004
- Audio (1:57)
- Explanations
- Old lives, young loves: "Lessing's waspish satire can be amusing enough, despite opaque and careless prose." The Guardian; November 22, 2003