A Sentimental Fool
I absolutely love Jane Austen’s world. It’s a place I can very easily get lost in, and often do on a daily basis. The politeness of the era captivates me, the social customs, the intricate societal hierarchy; the gowns, the coats, the gloves—the people.
Who on earth can forget the people?
Jane Austen certainly didn’t. In her years as a writer, she created some wonderful, delightfully complex personas, as well as some who are more easily discerned; some we absolutely love, and some we simply love to despise. Whether astute or asinine, bewitching or belligerent, her characters, with their myriad of personalities and dispositions, emotions and eccentricities, struck a chord of familiarity with her audience, both then and now.
Jane Austen wrote about what she knew: life in her time; the hardships and the joys most prevalent to the people who experienced them first hand. She was practical in her approach, in the way she directed her characters; in how most of them dealt with personal trials and tribulations; but she was also sentimental in the way she nurtured and guided her heroes and heroines, their situations and understandings—and their misunderstandings. They were better people at the end of it, and rewarded for their patience and perseverance. I have to confess that I love and admire Jane, and her beloved characters, all the more for it.
Two hundred years may have passed, but Jane Austen, her wit, her insight into the human condition, and her beloved novels are still very much alive, and thriving.
If you happen to have read my novel, The Truth About Mr. Darcy (formerly self-published as Affinity and Affection) you’ve already figured out that I have a sizable sentimental streak myself. It’s pretty hard to miss, actually! That Mr. Darcy adores Elizabeth Bennet is fairly obvious in the ways he devotes himself to her throughout the entire story, even in the beginning, when she found it difficult to look beyond his taciturn mien, or fathom why a woman of her consequence would ever attract a gentleman of his.
The sentiments of her heart soon outweigh the protests of her mind, however, and Elizabeth finds herself returning Darcy’s admiration and love, in every sense of the word. As you may have assumed, it isn’t smooth sailing in the beginning, but once their feelings for each other are acknowledged—and returned—they remain constant throughout, even when the road they travel becomes more difficult, more challenging to forge.
Mr. Darcy and Elizabeth Bennet weren’t the only characters in The Truth About Mr. Darcy who faced challenges, however, and I admit that my sentimentality inspired a coup against my more practical side on several occasions, especially where Lydia Bennet was concerned. Impetuous, ridiculous, and completely self-absorbed, some of you might question whether Lydia even has any redeeming qualities. From a sentimentalist’s point of view, I sincerely believe she does.
Without giving away any major spoilers, I’d like to share with you an excerpt from The Truth About Mr. Darcy. It takes place much later in the story, at Netherfield, when Lydia is finally on her way down the path of redemption.
After resting and bathing, the entire party dressed for dinner. Mr. and Mrs. Bennet, Mary, Kitty, and Jane, who had returned from Town the previous week with the Gardiners, would be joining them that evening for a family dinner. As it seemed to be taking Elizabeth far longer to complete her toilette than it had taken Darcy to perform his ablutions, he informed her of his intention to pass a quarter of an hour or so in the billiard room with Bingley and made his way toward the main staircase. On his way, he met Lydia.
He bowed to her and said, “You look lovely, Lydia. Is that not one of the gowns Georgiana urged you to purchase? The color suits you very well.”
Lydia smiled at such a generous compliment from her brother-in-law. “Thank you, Mr. Darcy. I received the gown just yesterday from Bond Street. I have another for Jane’s wedding and also for the ball Mr. Bingley will hold in her honor tomorrow night.”
Darcy smiled. “I am glad to hear it. According to your mother, a lady can never have enough gowns.”
Lydia’s expression grew serious, and she said, “I have been wondering, Mr. Darcy…”
Darcy waited, then inclined his head and raised one brow.
A smile threatened to turn up the corners of Darcy’s mouth, and he cleared his throat to regain his composure. “No, indeed, you should not, but I do hope you know you may always speak with me of anything you like, Lydia. And, if you prefer, Elizabeth need not hear of this slip of the tongue. It can remain just between us.”
Lydia gave him a small smile, and he escorted her to a well-lit parlor, which happened to be fortuitously empty. They took a seat upon two chairs by the fire, and Darcy waited for her to begin.
“Mr. Darcy, I… I suppose I will have to return to Longbourn tonight,” she said.
“Yes, I suppose so. Was that not what you and your parents had discussed while you remained in London?”
“It was, but I was wondering if… actually, hoping that, perhaps, well… you and Lizzy might consent to keep me? At least for a little while longer, I mean. Certainly not forever.”
Though Lydia had certainly become more relaxed within his household since the first weeks of her recovery, Darcy had thought she would now be eager to return to her own home. Mrs. Bennet had been impatient for her youngest daughter’s return to Longbourn, but Darcy had taken it upon himself to speak to Mr. Bennet on the subject and had managed to persuade his father-in-law to allow Lydia to extend her period of convalescence in London, much for Elizabeth’s peace of mind, as well as to ensure Lydia did not suffer any further ill effects from her experience. He observed her closely for a few moments and tapped his finger against his lips. “Longbourn is your home. You do not wish to resume living with your parents?”
Lydia dropped her gaze to her lap. “It is not that. I am afraid to return to Longbourn, Mr. Darcy. I have not behaved very well at all. Everyone must know of my running away and how very bad I have been. I am sure Mama and Kitty have spoken of it to the entire neighborhood by now, to say nothing of Mary and her tiresome sermonizing.”
Lydia nodded slowly. “It is,” she said. “I have stayed with you and Lizzy now these two months. It was far more than I deserve, I know, especially considering all the trouble I have caused you. I know Lizzy was very frightened for me, and she did not look after herself as she should. The danger to her was so very great. Wickham wanted to do terrible things to her, you know.”
“I was there to care for Elizabeth while she cared for you. I would not have allowed her to make herself ill, and I would not have allowed Wickham to harm her in any way. I am only sorry I failed to do the same for you,” he said. “You are my sister now, and I did not do enough to protect you from him.”
Lydia swallowed. “He was a very bad man. Lizzy and Jane tried to warn me, and so did you, but I did not want to listen to the truth. I know how lucky I am, Mr. Darcy. I am so very sorry I caused so much trouble, especially while Lizzy is expecting a baby. If you want, I will go home to Longbourn tonight. I have since learned many things about conducting myself as a proper lady from observing Lizzy and Georgiana. Perhaps I will never be as good as they are, or Jane, but I promise you I shall never stop trying.”
Darcy was reminded very much of how Georgiana had sounded after Ramsgate. He reached out and touched the back of Lydia’s hand. “I believe your parents would be disappointed not to have you with them while you are here, and, indeed, Kitty and Mary, as well. But I will speak with Elizabeth of your wish to stay with us, and if she agrees, and if you feel you would still prefer to remain with us for a while, you may accompany us when we leave for Pemberley after your sister’s wedding to Mr. Bingley—with your parents’ consent, of course.”
Lydia’s pleasure was evident in her smile. “Thank you, Mr. Darcy. Lizzy was correct—you truly are the best man in the world.”
Thank you so much for taking the time to read my post today. I hope you enjoyed reading an excerpt from my story as much as I enjoyed being here with you. If you’re interested in reading other samplings of my writing, please visit my website, where you can find the first chapter of a new story I’ve been working on, as well as an excerpt, and various other Austen-inspired goodies. You can also find me at Austen Authors, where I just happen to rub elbows with some pretty talented Austen-inspired writers, and on facebook, and twitter. (I’m @darcybabe1)
I sincerely hope you’ll stop by and say hello.
I’d like to offer my heartfelt thanks to Meredith for inviting me to be a part of her incredible Austenesque Extravaganza. As always, she’s been an absolutely wonderful, accommodating, doting host, and it’s been an enormous pleasure to be her guest once again.
Susan
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Psst Great day today 😀
And great excerpt, I remember this scene well
I loved this part of the novel and what follows! It is nice to see this change in Lydia and that she has been redeemed! Anyone who has not read this book must!!
Hi, Blodeuedd, and thank you! I’m so glad you enjoyed reading this particular excerpt about Lydia, and my book. It’s always so nice to run into you around the internet!
Thank you, Jakki (with the awesome last name!) I was recently invited to attend a very small book club, run by a friend, where each of the members also enjoyed the transformation that Lydia experienced. Hearing that people actually like her and approve of what I did with her in my story means so much, as it certainly doesn’t follow canon!
Best,
Susan
Ooh, definitely want to read this book! 🙂
I loved your book [I think it will always have my vote for Best Use of a Pianoforte 😉 ] and I do like when Lizzy’s younger sisters are given some positive attention and guidance. I always envision them having a great sibling relationship with both Darcy and Bingley.
I am glad Lydia has the possibility of being redeemed 🙂 I love the excerpt! Thanks for sharing 🙂
Maturity for Lydia? Will miracles never cease? You are far kinder than I would be.
Thanks, Susan.
araminta18, I’m so glad to hear it! Thank you so much for reading.
Hi, Monica – thank you so much for such a fantastic compliment, lol! I, too, like to read about the youngest Bennet sisters getting the proper attention and guidance they need in order to thrive as young women. It was something just as critical in the regency period as it is today. I had a wonderful time writing about Lydia and making her into just such a lady, especially as she was such a wild young thing in P&P!
pseudophilosopher,I’m so glad that you enjoyed my excerpt. Thank you so much for reading my post today!
Hi, Susan – I know, I know, but I couldn’t help myself. I had to redeem her in at least one story, and I had a thoroughly enjoyable time doings so. You’ll be satisfied to know that she’s just as silly as ever in my current work in progress, but I can’t make any promises for the future!
Best,
Susan
Thanks for the excerpt, Susan. I enjoyed reading about a much more somber Lydia. I love the direction your novel takes, so I’m glad you gave her a different chance. She is silly and flighty, but she’s a teenager, so what do you expect? It seems cruel that she’s stuck with Wickham as a husband, though she doesn’t know it yet, but it’s a bad mistake to make when you’re fifteen.
Of course, in real life you do have to pay the price.
Enjoyed the post, Susan!
Susan,
That excerpt made me tear up a little. No easy feat that, but now I must read your book. Thank you for sharing and I especially love seeing Lydia be somewhat redeemed.
Lydia turned out to be redeemable in my upcoming release, Mr. Darcy’s Letter. Turns out she can learn something from George Wickham if she doesn’t get rescued. I love how yo’ve done it as well!
Hi, Monica! I’m so glad you enjoyed my post, and my book. I always get a thrill when other authors like something I’ve written.
It IS a hard lot being stuck with Wickham, but in Jane Austen’s P&P Lydia made her own bed – quite literally – and had to face the consequences, regardless of what he was like as a man. In my story, though, I gave Wickham a more sinister side, so it is easier for the men in Lydia’s life to go against what Society would demand and do what is truly in Lydia’s best interest.
Hi Kaydee! I’m so pleased that the except moved you – thank you for telling me! I sincerely hope you’ll enjoy the rest of the book. Who knows, maybe you’ll even win one here on Austenesque Reviews. 🙂 Good luck to you!
Best,
Susan
Abigail, I’m so excited to hear there’s another P&P novel coming out where Lydia is redeemed, especially one of yours! I’m looking forward to reading about her experiences with George Wickham. She doesn’t get rescued, eh? I can just imagine what she might get up to. Thank you!
Best,
Susan
Susan:
I loved your book. I visit your site now and again but I haven’t recently. I’m excited to read you have a new chapter on it to read. I love doing that.
you’re a delite, Susan, and i’m pleased to meet you. thank you for generously sharing your work with us here and on your site; for participating in this extravaganza & adding to the daily pleasures scheduled for all of us Janeites!
I got this book in the post a few weeks ago, this has made me look forward to reading it even more!
I can’t wait to read this book!!
I can’t wait to read this book!!
Love! Now I must work this into my reading list :o)
Suzan, I’m so happy to hear it – thank you! And I’m very excited to hear that you visit my site. Usually there’s no sign of life, so it’s good to know that at least one person stops by, lol.
Faith Hope Cherrytea, you are unbelievably sweet – thank you so much! I love sharing my writing, and try to do so every chance I can; and being a part of the Austenesque Extravaganza is an honor. I was elated when Meredith asked me to participate, and wouldn’t miss it for the world.
Emmangel, thank you so much for buying my book! I sincerely hope that you’ll enjoy it.
Kelli, I’m so excited to hear that! Thank you so much for stopping by and taking the time to say hello.
Rebecca, I’m so glad! I don’t know about you, but my reading list is enormous at the moment, and getting longer every day (especially since I’m denying myself the pleasure of other authors so I can finish my current work-in-progress. Good luck – I hope you’ll enjoy my book once you’re able to get around to it!
Best,
Susan
Why is it that I haven’t read this book yet??? Good thing I am going to Powell’s next month and I have that lovely gift card just waiting… 🙂 Great excerpt!
Hi, Lieder! I honestly couldn’t tell you, but I do know that life has a wonderful way of interfering, lol. I’m so happy you enjoyed the excerpt, and if you do happen to come by a copy, I hope it’ll be well worth the wait! (Maybe you’ll win one here – I’ll keep my fingers crossed for you. 🙂 )
So nice to see you again!
Best,
Susan
Susan,
What a wonderful excerpt! I remember it well. I appreciate that you redeemed Lydia. Most of the time I just want to slap her. But you show us she could have a good side. (I am excited to see what Abigail does with Lydia as well) I will soon be visiting you to see what you are working on.
Hi Becky! I’m so happy that you remember this excerpt, and that you enjoyed Lydia’s redemption. I understand about the slapping urge – I had a few of those moments myself when I was writing TTAMD! Yes, I’m very much looking forward to reading Abigail’s book; finding out how she redeems Lydia is only one of the draws for me. Thanks so much for saying hello! I’d love to have you pop in – anytime.
Best,
Susan
I loved reading this!! I have the book on my to-read list, and now I’m really looking forward to reading it! Thank you for sharing!! 🙂
Nice post Susan! I, also, liked that Lydia was redeemed in your story. It always drives me crazy when Lydia is so self-absorbed she doesn’t realize the harm she done to her family or herself for that matter.
Hi Valerie – I’m so glad you enjoyed the excerpt, and thrilled to hear it’s on you reading list! I love sharing, so it was my pleasure. Thanks so much for taking the time to say hello.
Hi Candy, and thank you! Lydia being such an oblivious, self-absorbed young woman is one thing that makes me most frustrated with her as well. She did immense harm to her family in P&P, yet doesn’t acknowledge or even realize that fact, even after Mr. Darcy, her aunt, her father, and sisters try to make her understand the error of her ways. It felt very, very satisfying to be able to transform her into a proper young regency lady in my novel, and after all is said and done, I think Lydia rather enjoys being one! Thanks so much for stopping by.
Best,
Susan
I just loved your book Susan. Thank you for sharing a little of it and reminding me why.
I am reading your book now, Susan!! It is fantastic!
Lisa, I’m so pleased to hear it! Thanks so much for stopping by to read my post, and for taking the time to say hello and let me know.
Hi Chelsea, and yea! I’m so happy you like it. Thanks so much – happy reading.:)
Best, Susan
I own this book but sad to say have not read it yet! Soon!!!
Margaret, it’s so nice to hear that you’ve bought my book – thank you so much! I sincerely hope you’ll enjoy it.
Best,
Susan
Can’t wait to pick up a copy of “The truth about Mr. Darcy” for my sister, her birthday is coming up and she’d absolutely LOVE it!
Hi, Susie, I’m so glad! I hope your sister really does love it – and thank you!
Best,
Susan