Carl’s Reviews > Excellent Women > Status Update

On vacation to Montana so slowed down. If there was a male equivalent for the word misogynist, Pym would get the label. All the men are obtuse, dense, and not up to the quality of the excellent women

I'm starting to think the title is ironic, that Pym doesn't much like the "excellent" qualities of Mildred as these qualities make her too passive, too pleasing. In some ways, the book is like a comedy of manners--mismatched couples that come right at the end--but I'm guessing that nothing is going to come right at the end. Pym doesn't have a single male character who is worthy of Mildred--all are severely flawed.

Mildred involved--almost as a 'Fifth Business' character--in a variety of couples. Julian, the rector whom many thought M. would marry--has proposed to Allegra, the widow of a churchman. Allegra wants Winifred away from her brother Julian and tells Mildred she'd like her to take Winifred as a roommate. more at http://deukerreading.blogspot.com/

Mildred participates in a jumble--rummage sale.
She feels the sting of various comments about her unsuitableness (must be a better word) for marriage. Rockingham Napier--Rocky--is charming, kind, handsome. Also we meet anthropologist friend of Helena--Bone--who is also charming and handsome.

Helena having an affair with the anthropologist? Maybe
Very enjoyable, quiet book.

Mildred: main character, daughter of deceased cleric, living in flat in so-so London neighborhood, 30, unmarried, mousy.

Helena Napier: New (attractive) neighbor with attractive Navy (sort of ) husband.
Winifred and her brother: both single, friends of Mildred, share a flat. Brother is cleric also
Maid: Welsh, good comic scenes

So far, so good. Well-drawn characters; the fray of everyday life.