My mother’s diaries opened a window into the life of teenage girl as war is threatened and then arrives. Such writings–unintended for publication–can often prove more insightful then deliberately penned documents thinking of an audience beyond the immediate writer or recipient. This has proven the case with a cache of letters found between a husband and wife during World War II.
Letters between Gerard and Alice Fay, sent while they were apart during the second world war. Photograph: Poppy Jessop. From The Guardian.
Gerard Fay, an ordinary soldier, exchanged letters with his wife Alice, known as “Loll”, short for Lollipop. Discovered by their grandson and his wife, these letters have now been ordered, transcribed, and published.
Stephen, Alice and Gerard Fay at home. Photograph: Supplied image. From The Guardian.
Even more exciting, they will be performed with music. As Rosanna Greenstreet (the grandson’s wife) explains, “I immediately thought that a reading of our letters by two young actors, underscored by an onstage orchestra, would be a powerful way to mark the 80th anniversary of VE Day.” If you are interested in raw and immediate reactions to war from the perspective of regular folks, this series of books might just be for you.
Home Front Girl 