Melymbrosia

Rating:
Summary: A passionate journey
Review: Woolf's first novel "Melymbrosia" was completed in 1912, but wasn't published until 1915 under the title "The Voyage Out". Louise DeSalvo has pieced together this first manuscript to offer the public a glimpse into the early creative mind of Woolf. Following the same basic plot as "The Voyage Out" (a young woman's journey to sexual and emotional awakening), "Melymbrosia" is much more frank in its portrayal of politics and sexuality (including homosexuality). Another difference is the raw and unpolished feel that this early draft contains. DeSalvo chose to retain some of Woolf's errors in this version, and while this doesn't necessarily detract from the story, it does make the reader wonder about their inclusion. "Melymbrosia" is a fascinating and powerful look into Virginia Woolf's early writing and life that conveys the passions she felt for all aspects of life, which she felt she needed to mute to some degrees in order to gain acceptance.