The Glory of Clementina Wing

"The Glory of Clementina Wing" by William John Locke is a story set in London, focused on Clementina Wing, a gifted but world-weary portrait painter. The book explores themes of artistic drive, the limitations placed on women, and the complications of love when Clementina interacts with those of her close circle, most notably Tommy Burgrave, a developing artist and neighbor as well as her uncle, Dr. Ephraim Quixtus. As the story begins, a conversation between Clementina and Tommy reveals her struggle against traditional female roles and expectations. The story takes us through her past, we discover a sad love affair that shaped her character and spurred her independence through her art, setting the stage for further examinations of her challenges in her career and future relationships.