Richard Yates (1) (1926–1992)

I've been a fan of Richard Yates for quite a while, but this is the first time I've read any of his short stories. They are gems. Each story deals with individuals disappointed in some way with their lot, whilst often leaving other protagonists also disappointed in them. Whilst firmly rooted in 1950's America, the feelings he describes of discomfort, insecurity and disappointment are surely universal. My personal favourite? Drill Sergeant Reece. Yates' sympathy for an unsympathetic character is typical of the collection as a whole.… (more)

Easter Parade is an easy read about two sisters and their very different lives. Sarah Grimes marries quickly and has three children while Emily Grimes focuses on her career. Neither has a happy existence as each sister is deeply flawed. Easter Parade has been described as Yates's most autobiographical novel. Many, if not all, of the characters are loosely based in real people in Yates's lifetime. For some individuals, the veil that separates fiction from reality is spider web thin and they are easily identifiable. Many other details are just as transparent; right down to the name of the house on Long Island.
It has been determined through other documentation that Richard had based the character of Emily on himself. Interesting. I say interesting because I found Emily to be a sad and lonely woman. She bounced from one meaningless sexual encounter to another. Her relationships are shallow and fleeting because she is miserable at picking men or keeping friendships. At times I wanted her to find love while other times I was annoyed by her shrill personality.… (more)