Life and Death of Harriett Frean – May Sinclair

May Sinclair's Life and Death of Harriett Frean is a thought-provoking novella that explores the life of a woman who never had the chance to truly live. Through Harriett Frean's eyes, we are taken on a journey of self-discovery that delves into the human psyche and the constraints of societal norms.The book is divided into two parts: Harriett's life and her death. In the first half, we see Harriett's life unfold from her childhood to her adult years. Harriett is a woman who has always followed the rules, never daring to break free from the expectations of her family and society. She finds herself living a life that is not truly her own, and as a result, she never experiences true happiness or fulfillment.In the second half of the book, we witness Harriett's slow descent towards death. As she ages, she reflects on her life and comes to the realization that she has wasted it by conforming to expectations rather than pursuing her own desires. This realization leads to a sense of liberation, and Harriett begins to find peace in her final days.The Life and Death of Harriett Frean is a poignant and insightful exploration of the human condition. May Sinclair's prose is both beautiful and haunting, drawing the reader in and captivating them with Harriett's story. It is a reminder to live life on our own terms and to never sacrifice our happiness for the expectations of others.