Literary Analysis of Work Suspended and Other Stories (1943) by Evelyn Waugh

Evelyn Waugh is considered one of the most prominent writers of the 20th century, known for his satirical and witty style. Among his many works, “Work Suspended and Other Stories” stands out as a collection of short stories that showcase his talent for storytelling and character development. In this literary analysis, we will explore the themes, motifs, and writing style of Waugh’s “Work Suspended and Other Stories” to gain a deeper understanding of his literary legacy.

Waugh’s Life and Career

Evelyn Waugh was born in London in 1903 and grew up in a family of writers. His father, Arthur Waugh, was a literary critic and publisher, while his brother, Alec Waugh, was also a successful novelist. Waugh attended Oxford University, where he became known for his wit and his love of practical jokes. After graduating, he worked briefly as a schoolteacher before turning to writing full-time. Waugh’s early novels, such as Decline and Fall and Vile Bodies, were satirical works that skewered the excesses of the British upper class. In the 1940s, Waugh converted to Catholicism, which had a profound impact on his writing. His later works, such as Brideshead Revisited and The Loved One, explored themes of faith, morality, and the decline of Western civilization. Waugh died in 1966, leaving behind a legacy as one of the most important British writers of the 20th century.

Suspended: Plot Summary

Suspended is a collection of short stories written by Evelyn Waugh, published in 1943. The book consists of six stories, each with its own unique plot and characters. The stories are set in different locations, ranging from England to Africa, and explore various themes such as love, war, and religion. The title story, “Suspended,” follows a group of schoolboys who are suspended from their school for a prank they played on their headmaster. The story explores the boys’ reactions to their punishment and their attempts to find a way to redeem themselves. Another story, “Bella Fleace Gave a Party,” is a satirical take on the upper-class society in England. The story follows the preparations for a party hosted by Bella Fleace, a wealthy socialite, and the chaos that ensues when the guests arrive. Overall, Suspended is a thought-provoking collection of stories that showcases Waugh’s talent for storytelling and his ability to capture the complexities of human nature.

Themes in Suspended

One of the prominent themes in Evelyn Waugh’s work Suspended and Other Stories is the idea of societal expectations and the pressure to conform. Throughout the collection of short stories, Waugh explores the consequences of individuals who fail to meet these expectations and the impact it has on their lives. In “Mr. Loveday’s Little Outing,” the protagonist is deemed insane for not conforming to societal norms, leading to his institutionalization. Similarly, in “Cruise,” the main character’s refusal to participate in the activities of the upper-class passengers results in her being ostracized. Waugh’s portrayal of the consequences of nonconformity highlights the rigid nature of societal expectations and the dangers of deviating from them.

Character Analysis: Gilbert Stokesay

Gilbert Stokesay is a complex character in Evelyn Waugh’s short story “Suspended.” He is a young man who has been suspended from Oxford University for reasons that are not immediately clear. Throughout the story, it becomes apparent that Stokesay is struggling with his identity and his place in the world. He is a talented writer, but he is also deeply insecure and unsure of himself.

One of the most interesting aspects of Stokesay’s character is his relationship with his father. His father is a successful businessman who is disappointed in his son’s lack of direction and ambition. This tension between father and son is a recurring theme in Waugh’s work, and it is particularly poignant in “Suspended.” Stokesay’s father wants him to be successful and to follow in his footsteps, but Stokesay is more interested in pursuing his own interests and passions.

Despite his flaws, Stokesay is a sympathetic character. He is struggling to find his place in the world, and he is not sure who he is or what he wants. This is a common theme in Waugh’s work, and it is one that resonates with many readers. Stokesay’s journey is a reminder that we all struggle with our identities and our place in the world, and that it is okay to be unsure of ourselves at times.

Overall, Gilbert Stokesay is a complex and compelling character in “Suspended.” He is a young man who is struggling to find his place in the world, and his journey is one that many readers can relate to. Waugh’s exploration of Stokesay’s character is a testament to his skill as a writer, and it is one of the many reasons why “Suspended” is such a powerful and enduring work of literature.

Character Analysis: Mrs. Basil Seal

Mrs. Basil Seal is a complex character in Evelyn Waugh’s Work Suspended and Other Stories. She is a woman who is driven by her desire for wealth and status, and she is willing to do whatever it takes to achieve her goals. Mrs. Basil Seal is a master manipulator, and she uses her charm and wit to get what she wants. She is also a woman who is not afraid to take risks, and she is willing to break the rules if it means getting ahead. Despite her flaws, Mrs. Basil Seal is a fascinating character, and her story is a testament to the power of ambition and the lengths that people will go to achieve their dreams.

Symbolism in Suspended

Evelyn Waugh’s Suspended is a collection of short stories that explores the themes of love, loss, and the human condition. Throughout the book, Waugh uses symbolism to convey deeper meanings and to add layers of complexity to his stories.

One of the most prominent symbols in Suspended is the image of the cross. In the story “Out of Depth,” the protagonist, a young man named Tony, is described as wearing a silver cross around his neck. This cross serves as a symbol of Tony’s faith and his struggle to reconcile his beliefs with the realities of the world around him.

Another important symbol in Suspended is the image of water. In the story “The Balance,” the protagonist, a young woman named Janet, is described as being drawn to the sea. This symbolizes Janet’s desire for freedom and escape from the constraints of her life.

Overall, the use of symbolism in Suspended adds depth and richness to Waugh’s stories. It allows readers to explore the themes and ideas presented in the book on a deeper level and to gain a greater understanding of the human experience.

Waugh’s Use of Satire

Evelyn Waugh is known for his use of satire in his literary works, and Suspended and Other Stories is no exception. Through his satirical approach, Waugh is able to critique and comment on various aspects of society, including religion, politics, and social norms. In the story “The Balance,” Waugh satirizes the Catholic Church and its hierarchy, portraying them as corrupt and hypocritical. Similarly, in “Incident in Azania,” Waugh critiques colonialism and the exploitation of African nations by European powers. Overall, Waugh’s use of satire adds depth and complexity to his stories, allowing readers to engage with and reflect on the issues he presents.

The Structure of the Collection

The collection of short stories in Evelyn Waugh’s Work Suspended and Other Stories is structured in a way that allows readers to delve into the complexities of human nature. The stories are arranged in a chronological order, starting with the earliest work and progressing towards the later ones. This structure allows readers to witness the evolution of Waugh’s writing style and the themes he explores.

The collection is divided into three sections, each containing a different set of stories. The first section, titled “Early Stories,” includes some of Waugh’s earliest works, such as “The Balance,” “The Man Who Liked Dickens,” and “The End of the Battle.” These stories are characterized by their simplicity and straightforwardness, yet they still manage to convey the complexities of human relationships and emotions.

The second section, titled “Travel and Adventure,” includes stories that are set in exotic locations and explore themes of adventure, exploration, and the search for meaning. Stories such as “The Loved One,” “The Ordeal of Gilbert Pinfold,” and “The Vortex” showcase Waugh’s ability to create vivid and immersive settings that transport readers to far-off lands.

The final section, titled “Later Stories,” includes some of Waugh’s most mature and complex works, such as “Basil Seal Rides Again,” “Love Among the Ruins,” and “Work Suspended.” These stories explore themes of love, loss, and the search for identity, and showcase Waugh’s ability to create fully-realized characters that readers can empathize with.

Overall, the structure of the collection allows readers to explore the breadth and depth of Waugh’s writing, and to witness his evolution as a writer over time. Whether you’re a longtime fan of Waugh’s work or a newcomer to his writing, Work Suspended and Other Stories is a must-read collection that showcases the best of his short fiction.

Waugh’s Writing Style

Evelyn Waugh’s writing style is often described as satirical, witty, and darkly humorous. He was known for his ability to create vivid and complex characters, as well as his sharp observations of society and its flaws. In his collection of short stories, Suspended and Other Stories, Waugh showcases his unique writing style through a variety of narratives that explore themes such as love, death, and morality. His use of irony and sarcasm adds depth and complexity to his stories, making them both entertaining and thought-provoking. Waugh’s writing style is a testament to his skill as a writer and his ability to capture the complexities of the human experience.

The Role of Religion in Waugh’s Work

Religion plays a significant role in Evelyn Waugh’s work, particularly in his collection of short stories, Suspended and Other Stories. Waugh was a devout Catholic and his faith is evident in his writing. In many of his stories, he explores the themes of sin, redemption, and the struggle between good and evil.

One of the most prominent examples of this is in the story “The Balance.” The protagonist, Mr. Katchpole, is a wealthy businessman who has lived a life of sin and excess. He is given the opportunity to redeem himself by donating a large sum of money to a Catholic charity. However, he struggles with the decision and ultimately chooses to keep his money, leading to his downfall.

In “The Man Who Liked Dickens,” Waugh explores the idea of the Catholic Church as a source of comfort and guidance. The protagonist, Mr. Loveday, is a lonely man who finds solace in attending Mass and reading Dickens. When he is falsely accused of a crime, he turns to the Church for help and is ultimately exonerated.

Overall, Waugh’s use of religion in his work adds depth and complexity to his characters and themes. It also reflects his own personal beliefs and values, making his writing all the more powerful and thought-provoking.

Waugh’s Influence on Modern Literature

Evelyn Waugh’s impact on modern literature cannot be overstated. His unique style and wit have influenced countless writers, and his works continue to be studied and admired today. In particular, his collection of short stories, Suspended and Other Stories, showcases his mastery of the form and his ability to capture the complexities of human relationships. From the darkly humorous “Mr. Loveday’s Little Outing” to the poignant “Compassion,” Waugh’s stories are a testament to his skill as a writer and his enduring legacy in the literary world.

Reception of Suspended and Other Stories

The reception of Evelyn Waugh’s work Suspended and Other Stories has been mixed since its publication in 1943. While some critics praised the collection for its sharp wit and satirical commentary on British society, others found it to be too bleak and cynical. One common criticism was that the stories lacked a cohesive theme or message, making it difficult for readers to connect with the characters or understand the purpose of the collection as a whole. Despite these criticisms, Suspended and Other Stories remains a significant work in Waugh’s oeuvre, showcasing his mastery of the short story form and his ability to capture the complexities of human nature in a few short pages.

Comparisons to Waugh’s Other Works

When exploring Evelyn Waugh’s work, it is impossible not to draw comparisons to his other literary works. Suspended and Other Stories, in particular, shares similarities with Waugh’s earlier collection of short stories, Mr. Loveday’s Little Outing. Both collections feature characters who are struggling with their place in society and their own personal demons. However, Suspended and Other Stories delves deeper into the complexities of human relationships and the consequences of our actions. Waugh’s use of satire and dark humor is also present in both collections, but in Suspended and Other Stories, it is more refined and subtle. Overall, while there are similarities between Waugh’s works, each one stands on its own as a unique and thought-provoking piece of literature.

Analysis of Waugh’s Humor

Evelyn Waugh’s humor is often described as dark, satirical, and biting. In his collection of short stories, Suspended and Other Stories, Waugh uses humor to comment on the absurdity of human behavior and societal norms. One example of this can be seen in the story “Period Piece,” where a group of upper-class women obsess over their menstrual cycles and the latest fashions. Waugh’s use of irony and exaggeration highlights the ridiculousness of their preoccupations and the triviality of their lives. Similarly, in “Mr. Loveday’s Little Outing,” Waugh satirizes the British legal system and the way it treats mental illness. Through his use of dark humor, Waugh exposes the flaws and hypocrisies of society, making his readers question their own beliefs and values. Overall, Waugh’s humor is a powerful tool for social commentary and a key aspect of his literary style.

The Importance of Setting in Suspended

The setting in Evelyn Waugh’s Suspended and Other Stories plays a crucial role in the overall tone and atmosphere of the stories. From the opulent mansions of the wealthy to the bleak and desolate landscapes of war-torn Europe, Waugh’s descriptions of the settings transport the reader to a specific time and place. The importance of setting is particularly evident in the story “Sword of Honour,” where the protagonist, Guy Crouchback, finds himself in a foreign land, surrounded by unfamiliar customs and traditions. The setting of the story highlights the sense of displacement and isolation that Guy experiences, adding to the overall sense of unease and tension. In “The Balance,” the setting of a luxurious hotel in the French Riviera serves as a backdrop for the characters’ decadent and hedonistic lifestyles. The contrast between the opulence of the setting and the moral decay of the characters creates a sense of irony and satire. Overall, the setting in Suspended and Other Stories is a crucial element in creating the mood and atmosphere of the stories, and Waugh’s skillful descriptions transport the reader to a specific time and place, adding depth and richness to the narratives.

Waugh’s Treatment of Women in His Work

Evelyn Waugh’s treatment of women in his work has been a topic of discussion and debate among literary critics and readers alike. Some argue that Waugh’s portrayal of women is misogynistic and reinforces traditional gender roles, while others argue that his female characters are complex and nuanced. In his collection of short stories, Suspended and Other Stories, Waugh presents a range of female characters, each with their own unique personalities and motivations. However, it is important to examine how Waugh’s treatment of women reflects the societal norms and values of his time.

The Significance of the Title “Suspended”

The title of a literary work is often a crucial element that can provide insight into the themes and motifs explored within its pages. In the case of Evelyn Waugh’s collection of short stories, Suspended, the title holds particular significance. The word “suspended” suggests a state of limbo, a moment of pause or hesitation before a decision is made or action taken. This theme of indecision and uncertainty is present throughout the stories in the collection, as characters grapple with difficult choices and the consequences of their actions. Additionally, the title can be interpreted as a reference to the suspended state of the characters themselves, who often find themselves in a state of emotional or psychological limbo. Overall, the title “Suspended” serves as a fitting encapsulation of the complex and nuanced themes explored within Waugh’s work.

Exploring Evelyn Waugh’s Work Suspended and Other Stories: A Literary Analysis