Sorrow in Sunlight

"Sorrow in Sunlight" by Ronald Firbank is a novel written in the early 20th century. The story unfolds in a vibrant Caribbean setting, primarily focusing on the lives of the Mouth family, particularly the daughters Miss Miami Mouth and Edna, as they navigate the cultural dynamics of their environment, highlighting their aspirations and familial connections as they transition from village life in Mediavilla to the bustling city of Cuna-Cuna in search of societal status. The opening of the novel introduces us to Miss Miami Mouth, who appears bored in a sun-drenched landscape, reflecting on her simple life and the allure of city society, which captivates the rural community around her. As her mother expresses her desire for upward mobility and a better education for her daughters, the narrative presents a mix of humor and poignant observations amid familial banter. Through lively dialogue and evocative descriptions, we see Miami’s longing for a life beyond her current realities, intertwined with her affection for Bamboo, a young man from her village. This sets the stage for a rich exploration of identity, societal expectations, and personal desires within the lush backdrop of tropical life. (This is an automatically generated summary.)

Arthur Annesley Ronald Firbank was an innovative English novelist. His eight short novels, partly inspired by the London aesthetes of the 1890s, especially Oscar Wilde, consist largely of dialogue, with references to religion, social-climbing, and sexuality.