The Well of Loneliness (Virago modern classics)

However, I do not agree with the claim on the front of the cover describing it as "The Bible of Lesbianism" because in all honesty it is not. Radclyffe Hall may have herself been a lesbian, but in some ways this novel skirts over the issue and almost gives the impression that homosexuality is a negative thing. Obviously at the time that the novel is set in, she has to conform to certain social regulations, but referring to lesbians as "inverts" is not a particularly positive description in my eyes. Also trying to disguise the gender of the protagonist to a certain degree by calling her "Stephen" seems to also be an attempt to distract the reader from the issue of homosexuality that is clearly being conveyed.

However, this is beautifully written, it is a haunting piece of literature, that once read will never be forgotten. Hall may have been ahead of her time when the novel was first released, but she is now remembered as a classic and wonderful novelist whose words echo deeply within the heart of her readers.

This will reduce you to tears, I have never been so emotionally drained after finishing a book, but I truthfully believe that regardless of your view on sexuality, this is a love story, showing that love will force you to do anything to protect the one you truely care about and adore.

Exceptional.


The first book ever to make me cry ...   March 9, 2000
6 out of 7 found this review helpful

I initially struggled with this book but once I skipped the far-too-heavy introduction (by Alison Hennegan), I was rewarded with a beautifully written, moving account of one woman's experience of being born a lesbian in the late 19th century. Enjoyable for all, but especially for those women who's hearts ache with the desire to be accepted ...


A fantastic piece of literature!   December 12, 2001
10 out of 13 found this review helpful

'The Well of Lonliness' is an absolutely sensational book. The way in which Hall explores the feelings and emotions of Stephen are stunningly effective. I couldn't put this book down and the empathy which she makes you feel with the characters is incredible. This is the first book which reduced me to tears- I defy anyone not to be moved by it. I advise anyone and everyone to read this book as it truely is a fantastic piece of literature.


The love that dare not speak its name...   June 30, 2006
smurf (united kingdom)
0 out of 1 found this review helpful

Radclyffe Hall was an amazingly perceptive person who was born not only in the wrong body but the wrong era... This classic book is an absolute must for anyone confused about their sexuality. There is a reason why it is referred to as "the lesbian bible"...!! Without a doubt the inspiration for this book was Radclyffe Hall's own real life experiences interspersed with her own fantasies-on this occasion reality/fantasy work..!! NOT recommended in real-life..!!


Unbearably Tragic   January 8, 2001
Mrs. K. A. Wheatley (Leicester, UK)
5 out of 6 found this review helpful

This book was groundbreaking in it's day and still shocking to read in that it aches with a sense of isolation and discomfort at not fitting in. I thought that the area of the novel that dealt with young Stephen and her awakening desires and confusion was particularly heart rending, yet never does it give in it sentimentality or mawkishness. It is a strong, self-assured novel. The real tragedy is the elusive sense of happiness that haunts the pages, yet always seems to slip by.