amies808 's review for:

The House of Mirth by Edith Wharton

5.0

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Lily annoyed me much more in this rereading than previous readings—knowing that marrying rich was a woman’s best career prospect in this era, I was frustrated with her throwing away so many chances. (And also with her not being courageous enough to just be with Selden from the beginning.) Wharton has such a hauntingly beautiful way with words, though, that I forgive Lily every time. Her feelings of loneliness at the end are completely palpable and heartbreaking. Every reread of this, I find new favorite passages. The next time I read this, I’m pretty sure the entire novel will be highlighted.