Alvina Houghton is bored by her little town, and feels trapped after her
plans to elope with her lover falls through. Though she had previously
dreamed of training as a nurse, Alvina is unsure what to do with her
life. Alvina comes of age as her father, James, faces the failure of his
business. She has a difficult relationship with her father. He is a man
who never fully indulged in his passions, but has made eccentric
financial decisions. In attempt to secure his daughter's upbringing and
save his fortune, James buys a theater. There, he employs many traveling
artists, as well as a handsome and sensual Italian man named Ciccio.
After meeting the man, Alvina feels drawn to him, especially since he is
well-traveled. The two share a slow-burn courtship, and after a lifetime
of being raised around stifled passion, Alvina feels alive. Seduced by
Ciccio and desperate for adventure, Alvina decides to run away with
Ciccio, fleeing to Naples. As she leaves behind her life of security,
comfort, and predictability, Alvina starts to explore desire,
spontaneity, and her sexual freedom. Free to do as she wishes with
Ciccio, Alvina explores Naples and her own sexual awakening, feeling
independent and unfettered. However, even as she finds herself, Alvina
also faces the reality of such fleeting freedom. D.H. Lawrence's The
Lost Girl is an emotionally compelling narrative featuring strong
characters, wit, and prose that is both beautiful and bitter. With
themes of feminism, class divisions, and family, The Lost Girl is a
relatable story that leaves readers considering fate and the future.
Through meticulous detail, readers are given valuable insight on the
class distinctions and societal expectations of the 1920s in Europe.
D.H. Lawrence's The Lost Girl was awarded the James Tait Black
Memorial Prize in 1920 to congratulate its gripping narrative and
compelling characters. Now presented in an easy-to-read font and with a
striking new cover design, this edition of The Lost Girl by D.H.
Lawrence restores the novel to modern standards while respecting its
original mastery. With these accommodations, contemporary audiences are
treated to a reading experience that is both accessible and luxurious.
