Long time readers will recall that I like Charles and Mary Lamb’s writings. I am especially fond of Tales from Shakespeare (1807), a collection of the comedies and tragedies written in narrative form for children, most especially for girls who at the time had limited access to books compared to boys. Mary wrote the comedies. They are superior to Charles’ adaptations of the tragedies.

I read The Devil Kissed Her: The Story of Mary Lamb (2004) this weekend. I learned stuff I didn’t know. It seems well-researched, but that’s just a guess. There are no citations except occasional in-line references; there’s no bibliography. Their letters are quoted at length but not all are dated. It’s a far superior work than the biographical sketch at that infallible source which is truly abominable. And Lord knows it’s better than Mad Mary that I’m not even going to link to b/c it’s just that bad. (Link here goes to a rant of mine.) But it leaves a lot to be desired.

I understand that it’s me. Citations. Methods sections. Data analysis. I want to see this stuff with my own eyes so I know the author isn’t just making s*^t up. But that’s me.

Perhaps because I read the book in just a few sittings I was more tuned in but it really could have used a good editor, and a lot less commentary.

Where blank verse worked for her– for example in song form– she quoted directly, but more usually, she took Shakespeare’s poetry as a springboard for her own creativity. So Shakespeare’s Puk is described as one who:

p. 123

I can cut eight words from that without even trying.

Halfway through writing the Preface, she ran out of steam and Charles took over, finishing up with sentimental sop for parents of their potential readers…

p. 125

First, how do we know this? Is there a letter from Mary saying “I’ve run out of steam?” To whom was it sent? More importantly, if I wanted your opinion I’d have asked for it. He’s farking Charles Lamb. Of course it’s sentimental!

All in all I’m glad I took the time to read it.

And now… on to Drudge work Monday! And Marica cooks Monday. And Marica MUST work on Miss Missy’s School which she did not do this past weekend.

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