Our book club book for January was Ethan Frome. Good thing, too, because it was a short, easy, heartbreaking read. On the surface, it could just be looked at as a sad tragedy - a somewhat Romeo and Juliet that didn't quite turn out the same way.
But I think if it is looked at a little more deeply, Wharton captures the difficulty of being a part of the working poor. The grasp poverty has on those in its grip is demonstrated well in this book, and despite his best efforts, Ethan does not seem to be able to escape. He is not lazy - he works hard - but the stars never seem to align for him.
Wharton's writing sets an exquisite scene, making the read enjoyable despite the very sad story. For someone wanting a quick, "classic," read, this would be the one.
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