One-line summary:

“Angle of Repose” is a captivating novel that explores the complexities of marriage, art, and the pursuit of happiness through the story of a disabled historian and his grandmother’s letters.

The Story:

“Angle of Repose” by Wallace Stegner is a Pulitzer Prize-winning novel that weaves together two parallel narratives. The first narrative follows Lyman Ward, a disabled historian in his 60s who is grappling with his own failed marriage and physical limitations. Seeking solace and distraction, he delves into the second narrative, a collection of letters written by his grandmother, Susan Burling Ward, a strong-willed and adventurous woman living in the late 19th century.

As Lyman immerses himself in his grandmother’s letters, he becomes engrossed in her life story. Susan, a talented artist, marries Oliver Ward, a mining engineer, and together they embark on a journey through the American West during a time of rapid industrialization and social change. The couple faces numerous challenges as they navigate the harsh realities of frontier life, including Susan’s struggle to balance her artistic ambitions with the demands of marriage and motherhood.

Through Susan’s letters, Lyman gains insight into the complexities of his grandmother’s life and the sacrifices she made for her family. He begins to question his own choices and the compromises he has made in his own relationships. As Lyman reflects on his grandmother’s experiences, he is forced to confront his own fears and insecurities, ultimately finding a renewed sense of purpose and understanding.

Themes:

Marriage and Relationships:

“Angle of Repose” delves deeply into the complexities of marriage and relationships. Through Susan and Oliver’s marriage, the novel explores the challenges of balancing personal aspirations with the demands of a partnership. It highlights the sacrifices individuals make for their loved ones and the impact these choices have on their own happiness.

Art and Creativity:

The novel also explores the theme of art and creativity. Susan’s passion for painting serves as a metaphor for the pursuit of personal fulfillment and self-expression. Stegner beautifully captures the tension between artistic ambition and societal expectations, highlighting the struggles faced by women in pursuing their creative passions during a time when traditional gender roles were deeply entrenched.

The American West:

Set against the backdrop of the American West, “Angle of Repose” vividly portrays the challenges and triumphs of frontier life. Stegner’s rich descriptions of the landscape and the impact of industrialization on the region provide a compelling backdrop for the characters’ personal journeys. The novel explores themes of progress, environmental degradation, and the clash between tradition and modernity.

Key Takeaways:

• Marriage requires compromise and sacrifice, but it is essential to find a balance that allows for personal fulfillment.
• The pursuit of art and creativity can be a source of both joy and conflict, particularly for women navigating societal expectations.
• The American West, with its vast landscapes and rapid transformation, serves as a powerful metaphor for personal growth and the complexities of life.

Memorable Quote:

“I wonder if ever again Americans can have that experience of returning to a home place so intimately known, profoundly felt, deeply loved, and absolutely submitted to?” – Wallace Stegner

In “Angle of Repose,” Wallace Stegner masterfully weaves together the stories of Lyman Ward and his grandmother, Susan Burling Ward, to explore themes of marriage, art, and the pursuit of happiness. Through Susan’s letters, Lyman gains a deeper understanding of his own life and choices, ultimately finding solace and inspiration in his grandmother’s resilience and determination. The novel serves as a poignant reminder of the complexities of human relationships and the enduring power of the past to shape our present.