The Woman in White (1860)

In the 1800s, this was probably revolutionary. To a 21st century reader, the tropes are too familiar and the story isn't particularly engaging. There are other, better classics out there. ( )

So much has already been written about this classic of English literature, that I am unable to add anything new or original. All I will say is that this is one of the most gripping and absorbing 'mystery' stories you are ever likely go read; not for nothing has Collins been credited with inventing the modern detective story (or crime fiction, to give it its contemporary title). Set in 19th century London, Collins weaves a complex and intricate story that despite its age remains as fresh and gripping as ever.
© Koplowitz 2009 ( )

The end is a bit drawn out, but all the loose ends are tied up and resolved. Quite the tale of intrigue and identity, with a number of references to the place of women in that society -- I suspect the author was a bit of a feminist in his time. Marian Halcombe is a very strong female character, even by today's standards! Collins was a contemporary of Dickens, and while this story has the saga-aspect like a Dickens book, it does not really have the long drawn out descriptions or rambling sentences of Dickens. For something written over a hundred years ago, it is actually very read-able. Just be careful you don't read too fast, or you will miss the subtleties implied in passages that are very period-typical.

It's a long read, but good.

( )

The other day, I finished reading The Woman in White by Wilkie Collins. Overall, I am very satisfied with the way the story is written and how it ends but I think what I love most about the story is the fact that it keeps me anticipating more. While reading, I grew to appreciate it as a genuine thriller not because of all the complexities, but because Collins really dissects his characters for the reader. In some ways, it wouldn’t be right to blame the individuals who make up the story for being weak (Laura), outspoken (Marian), ignorant (Mrs. Michelson), stubborn (Sir Percival), or even love-sick (Walter) since they are like everyday people who do not know the entire story and they are only acting based on their own interests. Collins does a wonderful job justifying his characters’ actions and having them relate to people in circumstances they cannot escape.

My favorite character, however, is probably Count Fosco. Even though he’s virtually the main villain of the story, pulling all the strings, manipulating almost all the characters, he is a very likable villain. He is very cunning, extremely well-read, cultured, and sophisticated. He may be evil, but even to the very end of the story he finds a way to justify his actions. From another character’s perspective, Count Fosco may seem like a horrible character, but Fosco has that way of explaining his motives a reader can’t help but understand. Of course, throughout the story, I was rooting for Walter Hartright and Marian Halcombe to solve the mystery and restore Laura Fairlie’s rightful place in society, but I couldn’t help but admire Fosco and realize that he makes sense as a person. He is a person with selfish motives, but that’s what makes a human being. By the end of the story, he can apologize for the turn of events out of his control, but I felt that his “money motive” was not difficult to understand. Hopefully other individuals can find a way around what he thinks is the best way to pay off his debts, but I think it’s true that some people can end up being wicked and sinful out of desperation.

I hope to read more classics like The Woman in White where I don’t fall asleep because of the author’s use of complex sentence structures or because of words too hard to comprehend. Many times throughout the story, I ended up laughing because I knew what the author was talking about. I appreciated that Collins’ can connect to me as a reader and as a sensible person. His way of contextualizing certain situations pertaining to the legal system was a tad beyond my reach at first, but after reading over those passages two or three times more, I was able to gain a better grasp of the story. I definitely recommend this story to someone who loves classics, but who would also like for the author to reach him or her on a level of equal intelligence.

(from June 26, 2011)

Ok. Amazing.

I must confess that initially I had thought that this would be a ghost story. The title is very mysterious and the cover made the woman in white appear ethereal. Generally I try to not read too much about a book before I begin. I like to just let it unfold as I read.

Anyway, despite my initial misconception, I loved this book. It had a great build-up, amazing characterizations, and the "just right" ending.

It is told in pieces from varying viewpoints which give it the flavor of individual perception. As in real life we all 'think' we know what we saw but is it really what occured? I enjoyed being in the shoes of different observers as I tried to piece together what was happening. Also, I must say that when I read a passage written in the diary of one of the main characters by an outide person, I got tremendous goosebumps.

The novel begins with an art teacher, Walter Hartright who comes to the home of a Ms. Fairlie to instruct her in drawing techniques. This Ms. Fairlie is pretty darn fair so there is love in the air; but unfortunately she is to be wed to a Sir Percival. Her half-sister Marian is there to watch the flame between the two grow but advises that the proper course must be taken and Mr. Hartright is soon sent on his way. After his departure things become complicated. Sir Percival is too good to be true and has some Jerry Springerish things lurking in his closet. Hartright goes into the deepest darkest locations to try and forget his true love and we meet one of the best characters ever, Count Fosco.

For the longest time I couldn't tell if Fosco was the good or bad guy. But that in my opinion is what makes a good story. Fosco was such an oxymoron and very complex. He truly made most of the story and it was a worthwhile endeavor getting to know him.

I love how Collins sneaks in bits that are subtle but say a whole heck of a lot. I don't need everything spelled out for me and I enjoy a writer who can trust his readers to interpret as they wish.

Another observation is how delicate women were percieved to be at the time. The smallest emotional discomfort could set your health back for weeks. Thankfully Marian, for the most part, broke that mold. She was strong and smart!

Collins is the master of mystery in this book. I read the book and also listened to it on Librovox. This is the first time I have tried this approach with a book and I must say that it really worked in terms of getting a more complete experience of Collin's writing. A great experience and I enjoyed every page. ( )