Anne Douglas Sedgwick
Tante explores the complex dynamic between Madame Okraska, a charismatic, world-famous pianist, and her impressionable niece and ward, Karen. At first captivated by her aunt’s intellect and glamour, Karen gradually uncovers the emotional costs of living under such a powerful influence. As she matures and begins to find her own voice, a subtle struggle for autonomy unfolds-between devotion and selfhood, art and authenticity. Set against the backdrop of European high society, the novel is a psychologically nuanced study of domination, dependency, and personal awakening. Sedgwick weaves sharp insight into a richly atmospheric narrative that questions the true price of brilliance.Anne Douglas Sedgwick (1873-1935) was an American-born British writer. Her novels explored the contrast in values between Americans and Europeans. Her bestselling novel Tante was made into a 1918 film The Impossible Woman.