Kate Baldwin writes
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| Janet Douglas Photo: Kate Baldwin |
Janet Douglas thoroughly engaged the audience last night
at Headingley Library with her talk on Lettice Cooper, a rather forgotten name
of the twentieth century. Tales of her upbringing, her activities
throughout her life and even her friendship with Orwell’s wife really painted a
wonderful picture of a dynamic woman with a keen interest in society (as well
as a particularly keen interest in men, infer from that what you will!), an
interest very much apparent in her novels.
After regaling us with such tales as
her writing reviews for the Yorkshire Post for thirty years, Janet then went on to
discuss Lettice’s (we decided we felt familiar enough to call her Lettice)
novels, in particular National Provincial and The New House: the only one still
in print.
Through Janet’s brilliant summaries of the plots,
tactfully avoiding spoilers, we discovered the charm of Lettice Cooper’s
writing, especially for those living in Leeds. Although not born in the
glorious city, she was brought up there and it had a special place in her heart
featuring in many of her novels, not so inconspicuously with the pseudonym
‘Aire’. For a Leeds native, part of the joy of reading National Provincial
would be to recognise the familiar streets and areas, all ‘disguised’ with
aliases, and to imagine very clearly the backdrop for the story. Another
interesting point Janet focused on was the historical accuracy of Lettice’s
writing, with her stories reflecting real events such as a strike at Burton’s
factory in the sixties.
The link with Leeds was enjoyed by everyone in the
audience and sparked conversation in the question and answer section, with
people chipping in with their own stories and comments, creating a lovely
atmosphere full of communal love for a city inspired by the words of Lettice
Cooper (via the brilliant Janet Douglas) and possibly the free wine! All in
all, a wonderful evening.
Some audience feedback:
Janet Douglas – lovely, entertaining speaker. Loves her
subject. Really interesting. Thank you. L
Really very
interesting to hear the life and times of Leeds. I must read the books. Lovely
presentation, Janet. M
Very accomplished introduction to Lettice Cooper and has
inspired me to read more of her works – particularly National Provincial. Her
contribution to Leeds needs to be more recognised – perhaps R
It’s interesting to learn about a writer from your own
locality. I will possibly try reading her novels. T
Interesting, relevant, lively. J
Very interesting. I enjoyed it very much. K
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