"The Death of the Heart" is a novel by Elizabeth Bowen, first published in 1938. It is a portrayal of the life of a young orphaned girl, Portia Quayne, who is sent to live with her half-brother and his family in London. The novel explores themes of isolation, loneliness, and the search for love and belonging.
Portia is a sensitive and innocent young woman, who is completely unprepared for the cruel and selfish world that she finds herself in. She is constantly belittled and mistreated by her half-siblings and their friends, and is forced to navigate the complex and often treacherous social dynamics of 1930s London society. Despite her hardships, Portia remains hopeful and resilient, and ultimately finds the strength and determination to forge her own path in the world.
Overall, "The Death of the Heart" is a poignant and poignant exploration of the human experience, and a testament to the enduring power of the human spirit. It is a must-read for fans of classic literature and anyone interested in the complexities of human emotion and relationships.