Keeping the World Away

April 2, 2007
An enigmatic painting by Gwen John created as the young English artist pined for her neglectful lover, Rodin, connects the disparate characters in this century-spanning sentimental tale. Forlorn Gwen paints a canvas of a corner of her Paris flat intended to "signify herself—calm, peaceful, content" and gives it to a friend, who misplaces it. So begins the painting's journey as it ends up in the possession of an artistically bankrupt teenager, an impoverished nurse, a downtrodden farmer, a scorned wife, an aging woman returning to Paris after a long absence and, finally, a promising art student, all of whom find either strength or solace in the valuable work. Though the men characters are less than convincing, Forster captures a wide swath of 20th-century European womanhood.

Starred review from July 1, 2007
One small painting, a still life of a corner of an attic room, is the thread that ties this moving novel together. Gwen, a young woman who defies tradition and moves from London to Paris to pursue a career as an artist, finds herself in a passionate affair with the sculptor Rodin. When he casts her aside, Gwen uses her anguish to create a painting that is so simple in composition and yet so complex in emotion that it affects each woman who subsequently owns it. Forster ("Lady's Maid") interweaves all of the women's stories in such a clever way that they are united by more than just the painting. After Gwen, we meet awkward, intelligent Charlotte, then Stella, emotionally wounded and trying to paint. They are followed by Lucasta, a successful painter, and Ailsa, bravely independent after her husband's death. Finally, we are introduced to young and curious Gillian. Their stories span decades, and the similarities among the women are subtle yet profound. Each one must struggle with the urge for balance between solitude and opening her life to others. Highly recommended for all fiction collections.Anna M. Nelson, Collier Cty. P.L., Naples, FL

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