A Story of an Angle Window

A Story of an Angle Window by Ruth Lamb

"A Story of an Angle Window" by Ruth Lamb is a narrative centered around Richard Maynard Whitmore, a young man who becomes the guardian of his four stepsisters after the death of their mother, Mrs. Whitmore. The story explores themes of family responsibility, love, and the complexities of human relationships. Richard, affectionately known as Dick, is entrusted with the care of his stepsisters by his dying stepmother, who has been a true mother to him since his father's second marriage. The narrative delves into the dynamics between Richard and his stepsisters, particularly focusing on Gertrude, the eldest, who struggles with feelings of dependency and resentment upon learning that the family's wealth primarily belongs to Richard. The story unfolds against the backdrop of Mere Side, a charming estate that Richard and his stepmother built together. The angle window, a distinctive feature of the house, serves as a symbolic and literal focal point throughout the narrative, representing both the beauty and the challenges of the family's life. As the plot progresses, Gertrude's internal conflict and her relationship with Richard are explored in depth. Her initial resentment towards Richard's generosity and her fear of losing her home if he marries are central to her character development. However, her perspective shifts as she falls in love with Bertram Kemble, leading to a realization of her past ingratitude and selfishness. The arrival of Norah Pease, the niece of Miss Pease, who acts as a motherly figure to the Whitmore girls, introduces a new dynamic. Richard falls in love with Norah, but a misunderstanding leads him to believe she is engaged to another man. This misconception prompts Richard to embark on a journey, during which he reflects on his feelings and the nature of his responsibilities. Ultimately, the story resolves with Richard's return and the revelation that Norah is not engaged, allowing him to pursue his love for her. The narrative concludes with the various characters finding happiness and fulfillment, as Richard marries Norah and Gertrude reconciles with her past actions. "A Story of an Angle Window" is a tale of personal growth, the power of love, and the importance of family bonds, all framed within the picturesque setting of Mere Side and its symbolic angle window.

By Ruth Lamb · First published 1892 · Genre: Literary Fiction, Psychological Fiction, Magical Realism · 6 chapters · 20,925 words

First lines

"You will have to be father, mother, and brother to the girls, Dick. It is a great charge, but you will not shirk it. I know what you are, dear boy, and now, more than ever, I thank God, who took my only son, that He left me you."

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A Story of an Angle Window is listed on Textopian as a novella by Ruth Lamb, dated 1892 CE.

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literary fiction · mystery · psychological depth · narrative · drama · symbolism · coming-of-age · introspection · romance · cultural insights · character study · social commentary

Contents

More by Ruth Lamb