Lessing, Doris: 1919 - 2013

The Grass Is Singing, 1950 - Language/Style

  • English Language Level: Difficult
    • Psychological Depth – Much of the meaning is implied, not stated directly.

      Colonial and Social Themes – Unfamiliar context can slow understanding (e.g. Colonial Rhodesia setting; master–servant relationships; farm life and isolation).

      Formal, mid-20th-century English – longer sentences and less modern phrasing.

  • While the vocabulary isn’t extremely advanced, understanding the ideas and tone requires careful reading.