Novelist Tracy Chevalier talks to Zoe West about the ‘surplus’ women of the First World War, why she loves cathedrals, and what it’s like to meet Mr Darcy
Top-selling author Tracy Chevalier is best known for her globally acclaimed novel Girl with a Pearl Earring, which celebrates its 20th anniversary this year and was made into a successful film starring Colin Firth and Scarlett Johansson. Her tenth novel, A Single Thread, follows Violet – a woman regarded as ‘surplus’ after the First World War. As Violet resolves to make her way in the world, she is drawn into a society of borderers at a time of great social change. Tracy lives in London with her husband and son.
A Single Thread is the story of an unmarried woman crafting her own life. The First World War is over but Violet is still mourning the deaths of her fiancé and brother. The expectation at the time was that a woman would get married, and if she didn’t she was made to feel guilty, as if it were her fault.
This idea of the ‘surplus woman’ surprised me. Following the census in 1921, it became apparent there were nearly two million more women than men, whom the press referred to as ‘surplus women’.There was a lot of pity and condescension towards them. It was suggested that if you were a good, attractive woman, you should be able to find a husband because there were still some men left. The ladies who didn’t marry were seen as damaged goods, which I found appalling.
This story is from the October 2019 edition of Woman & Home.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 8,500+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber ? Sign In
This story is from the October 2019 edition of Woman & Home.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 8,500+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber? Sign In
LOVE is LOVE? It's different for everyone
As a gay parent, Lotte Jeffs is simply encouraging her five-year-old daughter to follow her heart
BANK HOLIDAY BAKES
Showstopping sweet treats the whole family will love
I worry about my BROTHER'S FUTURE'
Author Claire McGowan on growing up with her disabled brother, David
Your GREEK ISLAND GUIDE
Find the perfect Hellenic summer getaway with our round-up of sun-soaked isles
Your SPRING CLEAN GUIDE
Make your home shine this season with clever tricks that are better for the planet
HOW OLD is your BODY?
Whatever decade you're in, find out if you're as fit and healthy as you could be
Simple SELF HYPNOSIS for success
Stuck in a rut? Learn the mindset secrets that could help you live your best life
Do you need to use AZELAIC ACID?
Heard the hype about this new wonder ingredient? Sarah CooperWhite finds out why you might need it in your regime
Is politeness DEAD?
Certainly not... manners cost nothing, says leading etiquette coach William Hanson
Finding my LONG-LOST SON
Last year, author Lesley Pearse wrote in w&h about tracking down her mother’s family. Now that moment has led to another wonderful reunion