Publisher's Synopsis
The Quicksand is a novel by Edith Wharton, published in 1905. The story is set in New York City during the early 20th century and follows the life of a young woman named Charity Royall. Charity is a native of the small town of North Dormer, but she is taken in by her guardian, Mr. Royall, and brought to live with him in the larger city. As Charity navigates the complexities of city life, she becomes involved with a man named Lucius Harney, who is visiting from Boston. The two begin a passionate and illicit affair, but their relationship is threatened by the social conventions of the time and the disapproval of Mr. Royall. The Quicksand explores themes of love, desire, social class, and the constraints of society on individual freedom. Wharton's writing is known for its incisive social commentary and psychological depth, and The Quicksand is no exception. The novel is a poignant and thought-provoking examination of the human condition, and remains a classic of American literature.On the Fenno threshold a sudden sense of the futility of the attempt had almost driven Mrs. Quentin back to her carriage; but the door was already opening, and a parlor-maid who believed that Miss Fenno was in led the way to the depressing drawing-room. It was the kind of room in which no member of the family is likely to be found except after dinner or after death.This scarce antiquarian book is a facsimile reprint of the old original and may contain some imperfections such as library marks and notations. Because we believe this work is culturally important, we have made it available as part of our commitment for protecting, preserving, and promoting the world's literature in affordable, high quality, modern editions, that are true to their original work.
