To the Devil a Disappointment: Wheatley’s Satanic Soap Opera

Dennis Wheatley’s To the Devil a Daughter was supposed to be a spine-tingling foray into occult horror, but I found myself laughing more often than shivering. From the first page, I was ready for a clever, suspenseful narrative, only to be greeted by a clunky mix of melodrama, cardboard characters, and a plot that wobbled like an … Continue reading To the Devil a Disappointment: Wheatley’s Satanic Soap Opera

Alfie: The Charm, the Consequences, and the Loneliness Beneath the Swagger

A few days ago, quite by accident, I found myself watching a movie that reignited memories of a play I had already delved into some time ago. As the familiar story unfolded on screen, I felt the urge to revisit and refine my previous thoughts. Out came the metaphorical polish for an old essay, and … Continue reading Alfie: The Charm, the Consequences, and the Loneliness Beneath the Swagger

The Spectacle of Mr. Polly: A Tragicomedy of the Mildly Absurd – and then some.

Yesterday, I found myself deeply overwhelmed, though I kept it hidden as best I could as I accompanied my dear dad to the hospital for his first round of chemotherapy. He turns ninety this Sunday, a milestone I cherish even as we navigate this difficult journey. Having helped him care for his late partner, and … Continue reading The Spectacle of Mr. Polly: A Tragicomedy of the Mildly Absurd – and then some.

A Glimpse into Gibbons’ Masterpiece: Cold Comfort Farm

Forgive me, but is Stella taking the pee out of the likes of Hardy here? Some say yay, and some say nay. Stella Gibbons' Cold Comfort Farm, published in 1932, stands as a triumphant parody that brilliantly dissects and mocks the overwrought romanticism of rural melodramas prevalent in early 20th-century literature. With a deft hand and … Continue reading A Glimpse into Gibbons’ Masterpiece: Cold Comfort Farm