I became interested in Dawn Powell after hearing a story on NPR about her being buried in an unmarked grave in Potter’s Field after being a well-known writer. That made me look for one of her books, and I found this one, a social satire about 1930s New York.
Dennis Orphen has just published his latest book, based on the life of his best friend Effie, the ex-wife of a famous Hemingway-like writer, and only thinly disguised. It is not until he sees Effie’s reaction that he realizes she might not take it well.
Although Andy Callingham left her years ago for Marlene, Effie is still waiting for him to return. His likes have become hers, and she endlessly talks about their past. Dennis reflects that she was once independent enough for Callingham to leave, but he wonders what is left of the Effie she was before.
While Dennis meets his married lover, Corinne, visits the social scene (whose members are probably easily recognizable to Powell’s contemporaries), and visits his publisher in a series of fairly brutal satiric scenes, Effie is summoned to Marlene’s hospital bed. Marlene has fled because of Andy’s interest in a young Swedish actress, but now she is dying. The hospital calls Effie because they share a last name.
For the first time since he left, Effie contacts Andy to summon him to Marlene’s deathbed. While they wait, Effie is subjected to Marlene’s ramblings, just as besotted as Effie’s own. Will Andy come or not? If he does, who for?
For me, the funniest thing about this book is its depiction of “Hemingway,” who I always knew was an egotistical jerk. I’m sure if I was more familiar with the 30s social scene, I would recognize other characters. No one in this novel is absolutely likable, although Dennis comes out better than he starts, and Effie is simply deluded.
As for the writing, it’s sharp, with witty dialogue, betraying a wicked eye.
What? Me Read? 
I like the sound of this, thanks for your detective work!
You’re welcome!