Willa Cather: A Pioneer, An Original

The incomparable Willa Cather (1873-1947) was not only the author of wonderful, original fiction, most notably a dozen novels, but also a strong, independent woman who had a career as a journalist before she became a novelist. A major strength and source of originality is that most of her novels take place in heartland areas rather than in the big cities of the East, in contrast to most novels of the time. The best of the novels, in my opinion, are "My Antonia," "Song of the Lark," and "Death Comes for the Archbishop." The main character of "My Antonia" is a young woman who has immigrated to the U.S. from Bohemia with her family; they settle in the prairies of Nebraska. Living conditions are harsh, but the family works hard, gradually making lives for themselves. Antonia, although young, is the strongest family member, the rock upon whom the others rely. She is independent, hardworking, big-hearted, and kind. At several points, she has to stand up for herself and/or her family, and is competent and fearless in doing so. She is an American original, a truly wonderful character, one who reflects many aspects of Cather's own life and qualities. "Song of the Lark" is the story of Thea Kronberg, who is from Colorado but goes to Chicago and eventually New York, becoming a famed opera singer. It is a lovely ode to the way art transforms lives and allows us to transcend limitations. "Death Comes for the Archbishop" takes place in New Mexico, and treats historical themes about the Catholic church, Native Americans, and colonialism. It is a spare, intense, poetic novel, with vivid descriptions of the stark and striking landscape.