266. Radclyffe Hall — The Well of Loneliness with Iris Jamahl Dunkle
Often called “the lesbian Bible,” Radclyffe Hall’s 1928 novel The Well of Loneliness has been sparking debate for nearly a century. Banned in the UK after an infamous obscenity trial, the book remains a lightening rod for readers — some revere it, others can’t stand it. We’ll explore what makes this groundbreaking novel so remarkable (and so divisive) with returning guest Iris Jamahl Dunkle, who found inspiration in Hall’s protagonist for her forthcoming book on strong-bodied women who refuse to conform to society’s standards.
Mentioned in this episode:
Kim and Amy’s October 14 LitQuake appearance: “Scribbling Women” Strike Back: How Long-Silenced Voices Have Fueled a New Resistance
The Well of Loneliness by Radclyffe Hall (new Oxford Press edition)
Iris Jamahl Dunkle’s Substack article on Radclyffe Hall
“Bad Gays” podcast episode on Radclyffe Hall
Lost Ladies of Lit Episode No. 27 on Charmian Kittredge London
Lost Ladies of Lit Episode No. 214 on Sanora Babb
Lost Ladies of Lit Episode No. 152 on Janet Lewis
Riding Like the Wind: The Life of Sanora Babb by Iris Jamahl Dunkle
Charmian Kittredge London: Trailblazer, Author, Adventurer by Iris Jamahl Dunkle
Loving Sylvia Plath: A Reclamation by Emily Van Duyne
Do Admit: The Mitford Sisters and Me by Mimi Pond