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James’s most famous ghost story is set in a remote house with a
small cast of characters. A young governess has recently joined the household
and although at first believes it to be an idyllic post, she soon finds herself
entangled in a terrible tale. She begins to see ghostly figures around the
estate that resemble previous employees who are recently deceased. The two
children in her care are well behaved and beautiful but she soon comes to
believe they are in league with the ghosts, leading to a tragic attempt to
protect them.
The novel is told in first person narrative by the governess (except
for the opening which merely introduces the account that follows). We see in
her a woman who takes on far more than she can manage in a futile attempt to
please her employer, who remains absent throughout. Seeing events unfold
through her eyes we are led to understand how she came to her conclusions yet
critics have been divided over whether or not the ghosts are real or if she is
descending into madness. James’s careful ambiguity has allowed this debate to
rage for decades and it is ultimately a question that will remain forever
unanswered. Whichever way you read it, it is clear that you cannot take the
narrative as absolute truth.
The first appearance of the ghost peering in through the window is
truly unsettling and as the story progresses the governess fabricates an
internal life for them, imagining their purpose and beliefs despite them never
speaking a word or indicating any intention to do harm. Is she allowing her
paranoia and imagination to run away from her? Rumours of the actions of both
the previous employees hang over the governess and contribute to her belief
that their presence will end in harm.
The children have moments of playing up which she believes is a
result of ghostly interference, causing a strong reaction in her. The children
are unsurprisingly unnerved by the seemingly erratic, extreme responses of
their governess. Is she acting in selfless defence of her charges, wishing to
be the hero of their story, or are her own delusions causing their strange
behaviour?
An atmospheric read that will send shivers down your spine. Whether
character study or ghost story, it is an intriguing tale and a sinister one at
that. A book that stands up well to a re-read, especially when considering the
opposing interpretations.
Pick up a copy:
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