The Locusts' Years

"The Locusts' Years" by Mary H. Fee is a story that looks at the lives of Judge Alexander Barton, Miss Charlotte Ponsonby, and Martin Collingwood during the early 1900s. It examines civilization, social classes, and how people connect with each other. Miss Ponsonby's relationships with the two men highlight how social expectations and personal battles affect her. Judge Barton thinks about the divide between people of high class and the hard truths of the world, especially concerning Miss Ponsonby, a nurse dealing with her own identity and struggles within a strict social system. Collingwood, a young man healing in the same place, becomes fascinated by her quiet nature as they both feel lost and desire a meaningful connection. The beginning of the novel establishes a romantic feeling mixed with social commentary, showing how Miss Ponsonby's inner strength goes against what society wants from her, making readers question whether personal happiness is worth sacrificing for social approval.