Alcott On the Page

Alcott was a master of multiple genres–from domestic fiction to psychological thrillers–and forms–from full-length novels to novellas and short stories. Her versatility continues to give us ample room to explore themes, structure, and character development in her works. For our October episode, Jill and I are walking you through A Marble Woman, one of Alcott’s lesser known but more complex thrillers: the story of an artist, his young ward, and the mysterious model in the tower. 

Written only a few years before Little Women, this story is Alcott at her finest as a writer, showcasing her aptitude for crafting a tightly driven plot, dramatic dialogue, and a brilliant comprehension of the subtle intricacies of the human mind. Alcott explores the complex relationship between artist and muse to reveal that the true horrors are within. So turn down the lights, lock the doors, and settle in.