Zona Gale's Miss Lulu Bett (1920) - Pulitzer Prize for Drama

Miss Lulu Bett, a novel by American writer Zona Gale, was published in 1920 and later adapted for the stage. At the time of its initial publication, the book was a bestseller, but its popularity gradually waned as tastes and social conditions changed.

The story revolves around Lulu, a woman who lives with her sister's family, essentially fulfilling the role of a servant. Despite her position, Lulu does not complain, but she is not entirely content either. When her brother-in-law's brother, Ninian, comes to visit, a certain attraction develops between them.

One evening, while engaging in playful banter, Ninian and Lulu find themselves accidentally married, due to the laws of the state that require little more than the recitation of wedding vows in the presence of a magistrate for a marriage to be considered legally binding.

Upon realizing this, Ninian and Lulu decide to embrace the idea of being married and choose to continue with their newfound union. However, within a month, Lulu returns home, having discovered that Ninian was already legally married. Eighteen years prior, he had wed a girl who left him after 2 years, and he had actually forgotten about the whole affair.

The novel explores the complexities of relationships, social conventions, and the unintended consequences that can arise from seemingly innocuous situations. Zona Gale's portrayal of Lulu's circumstances and the unexpected turn of events highlights the nuanced nature of human desires, societal expectations, and the power dynamics that shape individual lives.

Despite its initial success, Miss Lulu Bett gradually fell out of favor with changing literary preferences and evolving social norms. However, the story's enduring themes and the author's insightful exploration of the human experience continue to resonate with readers, offering a compelling and thought-provoking narrative that challenges preconceived notions and invites reflection on the complexities of life.

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