John answers “Did anyone else think the major theme or...”

Regan asked this question about The Haunting of Hill House:

Did anyone else think the major theme or "horror" of the book is repressed female (lesbian) sexuality?

John I wouldn't call it horror, but clearly it wasn't necessary for Jackson to portray her characters that way in terms of the story arc or their relations…moreI wouldn't call it horror, but clearly it wasn't necessary for Jackson to portray her characters that way in terms of the story arc or their relationship. They could have become enemies or friends without adding those nuances. So I think that the reader has enough indicators to believe it was more than friendship and that there was a unrequited sexual element, regardless of the sheltered life Eleanor may have lived in the past or even what the author may have consciously intended. Authors reveal more than they intend or know. (less)

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The Haunting of Hill House

by Shirley Jackson

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