Porzia By: Cale Young Rice (1872-1943)
Porzia, written by Cale Young Rice, is a captivating and thought-provoking novel that explores the complexities of love, marriage, and social expectations in early 20th century America. Set in the lavish backdrop of New Orleans, the story revolves around the eponymous character Porzia, a young woman trapped in a loveless marriage to a prominent lawyer. Rice's exquisite narrative style draws readers into Porzia's world, vividly portraying her inner struggles as she navigates the societal pressures imposed upon her. The author delicately captures the oppressive nature of Porzia's existence, brilliantly showcasing the stark contrast between her external appearance of contentment and her internal turmoil. One of the most fascinating aspects of the novel is Rice's depiction of the cultural and gender norms prevalent during that era. Through Porzia, the author raises important questions about the limitations imposed on women, their lack of agency, and the unequal power dynamics within marriages. The candid exploration of these themes adds depth and meaning to the story, making it resonate with readers even today. The character development in Porzia is simply outstanding. Rice manages to breathe life into each character, giving them unique voices and motivations. Porzia's evolution from a submissive and obedient wife to a resilient woman who dares to challenge societal norms is particularly inspiring. Her journey is filled with struggle, heartache, and personal growth, making her an emblem of resilience and determination. Rice's descriptive prose is poetic and evocative. The rich imagery and sensory details transport the reader to the enchanting streets of New Orleans, immersing them in the opulence and decadence of the time. The vibrancy of the setting not only serves as a backdrop but also reflects the conflicting emotions and desires of the characters. While the narrative moves at a deliberate pace, it allows for a deeper exploration of the characters and their motivations. Although the story might not appeal to those seeking fast-paced action, the slower tempo enhances the novel's introspective nature and encourages readers to reflect on the complexities of human relationships. Overall, Porzia is a profoundly moving and beautifully written novel that delves into the timeless themes of love, freedom, and self-discovery. Cale Young Rice's masterful storytelling and compelling characters make it a must-read for anyone interested in historical fiction and the intricacies of the human heart. First Page: PORZIA BY CALE YOUNG RICE AUTHOR OF "A NIGHT IN AVIGNON," "YOLANDA OF CYPRUS," "CHARLES DI TOCCA," "DAVID," "MANY GODS," "NIRVANA DAYS," "FAR QUESTS," "THE IMMORTAL LURE," ETC. GARDEN CITY NEW YORK DOUBLEDAY, PAGE & COMPANY MCMXIII Copyright, 1913, by CALE YOUNG RICE All rights reserved, including that of translation into Foreign Languages, including the Scandinavian. To GILBERT MURRAY Poet, Dramatist, and Master Interpreter of a great literature PREFACE Some years ago while writing "A Night In Avignon" the thought came to me of framing two other plays that should deal respectively with the Renaissance spirit at its height and decadence, as that play had dealt with it at its beginning. For the great human upheaval that came intoxicatingly to Italy during the fourteenth, fifteenth and sixteenth centuries is so full of æsthetic contrast and glamor as to be peculiarly suitable for the doubly exacting purposes of poetic drama. "Giorgione," the second of these plays to be written, was published in 1911 with three other plays in a volume entitled "The Immortal Lure," and like "A Night In Avignon" was received with such kindness as to encourage me to write the third, here presented under the name of "Porzia." This last play, whose period is that of "decadent Humanism," or as Symonds prefers to call it, of "The Catholic Reaction," is laid in Naples, where the passions of men, more than freed from the long domination of the Church and the Hereafter, seemed to reach in their grasp at this life almost incredible heights and depths of excess... Continue reading book >>

Porzia By: Cale Young Rice (1872-1943)

Porzia, written by Cale Young Rice, is a captivating and thought-provoking novel that explores the complexities of love, marriage, and social expectations in early 20th century America. Set in the lavish backdrop of New Orleans, the story revolves around the eponymous character Porzia, a young woman trapped in a loveless marriage to a prominent lawyer.

Rice's exquisite narrative style draws readers into Porzia's world, vividly portraying her inner struggles as she navigates the societal pressures imposed upon her. The author delicately captures the oppressive nature of Porzia's existence, brilliantly showcasing the stark contrast between her external appearance of contentment and her internal turmoil.

One of the most fascinating aspects of the novel is Rice's depiction of the cultural and gender norms prevalent during that era. Through Porzia, the author raises important questions about the limitations imposed on women, their lack of agency, and the unequal power dynamics within marriages. The candid exploration of these themes adds depth and meaning to the story, making it resonate with readers even today.

The character development in Porzia is simply outstanding. Rice manages to breathe life into each character, giving them unique voices and motivations. Porzia's evolution from a submissive and obedient wife to a resilient woman who dares to challenge societal norms is particularly inspiring. Her journey is filled with struggle, heartache, and personal growth, making her an emblem of resilience and determination.

Rice's descriptive prose is poetic and evocative. The rich imagery and sensory details transport the reader to the enchanting streets of New Orleans, immersing them in the opulence and decadence of the time. The vibrancy of the setting not only serves as a backdrop but also reflects the conflicting emotions and desires of the characters.

While the narrative moves at a deliberate pace, it allows for a deeper exploration of the characters and their motivations. Although the story might not appeal to those seeking fast-paced action, the slower tempo enhances the novel's introspective nature and encourages readers to reflect on the complexities of human relationships.

Overall, Porzia is a profoundly moving and beautifully written novel that delves into the timeless themes of love, freedom, and self-discovery. Cale Young Rice's masterful storytelling and compelling characters make it a must-read for anyone interested in historical fiction and the intricacies of the human heart.

First Page:

PORZIA

CALE YOUNG RICE

AUTHOR OF

"A NIGHT IN AVIGNON," "YOLANDA OF CYPRUS," "CHARLES DI TOCCA," "DAVID," "MANY GODS," "NIRVANA DAYS," "FAR QUESTS," "THE IMMORTAL LURE," ETC.

GARDEN CITY

NEW YORK

DOUBLEDAY, PAGE & COMPANY

MCMXIII

CALE YOUNG RICE

GILBERT MURRAY

Poet, Dramatist, and Master Interpreter of a great literature

PREFACE

Some years ago while writing "A Night In Avignon" the thought came to me of framing two other plays that should deal respectively with the Renaissance spirit at its height and decadence, as that play had dealt with it at its beginning. For the great human upheaval that came intoxicatingly to Italy during the fourteenth, fifteenth and sixteenth centuries is so full of æsthetic contrast and glamor as to be peculiarly suitable for the doubly exacting purposes of poetic drama.

"Giorgione," the second of these plays to be written, was published in 1911 with three other plays in a volume entitled "The Immortal Lure," and like "A Night In Avignon" was received with such kindness as to encourage me to write the third, here presented under the name of "Porzia."

This last play, whose period is that of "decadent Humanism," or as Symonds prefers to call it, of "The Catholic Reaction," is laid in Naples, where the passions of men, more than freed from the long domination of the Church and the Hereafter, seemed to reach in their grasp at this life almost incredible heights and depths of excess... Continue reading book >>

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