The Deceased Wife's Sister, and My Beautiful Neighbour, v. 3

"The Deceased Wife's Sister, and My Beautiful Neighbour, v. 3" by William Clark Russell is a story from the late 1800s about love and longing. The book tells the tale of Mr. Thorburn, who finds himself completely drawn to his lovely, mysterious neighbor, Mrs. Fraser. As Mr. Thorburn deals with his growing feelings, the story looks at being alone, wanting something deeply, and how beauty and imagination can mix together. We first meet Mr. Thorburn feeling a mix of awe and worry about Mrs. Fraser, who he first saw during a walk late at night. As Thorburn struggles with his feelings, he seeks advice from his friend Martelli, a sensible teacher who has a different view on love. Their talks show Thorburn's inner confusion and the almost magical feeling around Mrs. Fraser, who he sees as the perfect picture of beauty. The early parts of the book are full of romantic tension and thoughtful talks about love and life, setting the scene for what happens between Thorburn and Mrs. Fraser.