Human Voices is one of my favourite novels. I also recently read Dear Mrs Bird by A J Pearce which is set in the London blitz, too, and although it's less sharp than Fitzgerald's trademark irony, I thought it was fascinating. What I took from it was that women, especially, were encouraged not to admit to feelings of fear and unhappiness because it would help the enemy. There's been a big shift in what's expected, emotionally, and that's all for the good in many ways, but it's so interesting to see the very different demands and values of the past. Great post! Thank you.
I liked Dear Mrs Bird as well. I'm fascinated by women during the War, it's my mother's generation and the subject, I hope of my next project. Thank you for this comment
This is so fantastic. Your piece offers a brilliant glimpse into the wartime atmosphere at Broadcasting House, skillfully weaving historical details with the tension of the era. I particularly appreciated how you highlighted the BBC's commitment to truth amidst chaos and brought to life the day-to-day experiences of those working there. Great work!
Indeed. If only it was still the case that truth was as a casualty was limited to wartime. Right now it seems that truth is badly wounded by life, not war.
Fascinating and timely in the age of “alternative facts.” Uncertainty about what’s really going on can be more distressing and disorienting than a diet of consoling falsehoods. What an eye for detail Fitzgerald had.
Brilliant piece, makes me want to read the novel.
A wonderful essay, thank you Sarah!
Human Voices is one of my favourite novels. I also recently read Dear Mrs Bird by A J Pearce which is set in the London blitz, too, and although it's less sharp than Fitzgerald's trademark irony, I thought it was fascinating. What I took from it was that women, especially, were encouraged not to admit to feelings of fear and unhappiness because it would help the enemy. There's been a big shift in what's expected, emotionally, and that's all for the good in many ways, but it's so interesting to see the very different demands and values of the past. Great post! Thank you.
I liked Dear Mrs Bird as well. I'm fascinated by women during the War, it's my mother's generation and the subject, I hope of my next project. Thank you for this comment
This is so compelling, Sarah. It's a rich topic and you tell the story so well. I certainly want to read Fitzgerald's book now. Thank you!
Thank you, Jeffrey, and for the re-stack!
A really fascinating read.
This is bracing. Thank you for sharing it!
Thank you. That’s obedient for the TBR list .
This is so fantastic. Your piece offers a brilliant glimpse into the wartime atmosphere at Broadcasting House, skillfully weaving historical details with the tension of the era. I particularly appreciated how you highlighted the BBC's commitment to truth amidst chaos and brought to life the day-to-day experiences of those working there. Great work!
Indeed. If only it was still the case that truth was as a casualty was limited to wartime. Right now it seems that truth is badly wounded by life, not war.
Excellent stuff - much to be said for cold baked potatoes!
Fascinating and timely in the age of “alternative facts.” Uncertainty about what’s really going on can be more distressing and disorienting than a diet of consoling falsehoods. What an eye for detail Fitzgerald had.