Honest review of The Song of the Lark

by WILLA CATHER (Author)

Updated at: 05/02/2025

Willa Cather's The Song of the Lark, published in 1915, is a compelling novel forming part of her acclaimed Great Plains Trilogy. This trilogy, which also includes O Pioneers! and My Ántonia, delves into the lives of strong women striving for self-discovery amidst the vast landscapes of the American West. Cather masterfully portrays Thea Kronborg's journey, showcasing her unwavering ambition and resilience as she navigates personal challenges and artistic aspirations. The novel explores themes of self-determination, the influence of environment on personal growth, and the enduring power of the human spirit in the face of adversity. The Song of the Lark is a testament to Cather's evocative prose and her profound understanding of the human condition.

4.1 / 1,203 ratings

Review The Song of the Lark

Oh my goodness, "The Song of the Lark" was such a treat! As a seasoned Willa Cather reader (this was my third in a month!), I knew I was in for something special, but it still exceeded my expectations. Cather's writing is simply exquisite; rich, descriptive, and deeply satisfying. It's the kind of prose that lingers in your mind long after you've turned the final page. I especially loved how she paints such vivid pictures of the landscape, truly bringing the turn-of-the-century American West to life. The descriptions weren't just pretty scenery, though; they mirrored Thea's emotional journey, becoming more sparse and uncertain as she herself struggled.

The character development was breathtaking. It wasn't just Thea, the protagonist, whose growth captivated me; Cather populates the novel with a vibrant cast of supporting characters who each play a vital role in shaping Thea's journey. Their relationships, while sometimes fraught with conflict, felt authentic and complex. They added depth and nuance to the story, making it feel profoundly human.

I will admit, around the two-thirds mark, I did feel a slight dip in the pacing. The narrative seemed to slow, perhaps as Cather indulged in some of her own cherished memories, drawing out Thea's growth in a way that, while meaningful, did feel a little drawn-out at times. It made me impatient at certain points, wanting the story to move forward more quickly. However, even during those slower moments, I felt a deep connection to the story and to Thea's experiences, a spiritual resonance that touched upon universal themes of ambition, self-discovery, and the sacrifices we make in pursuit of our dreams.

Comparing it to Cather's other works in the Great Plains Trilogy, I found it held its own, even surpassing "O Pioneers!" in some aspects. While "My Antonia" remains a personal favorite, "The Song of the Lark" offers a different kind of beauty. It’s a more focused exploration of a singular artistic ambition, contrasted with the broader scope of the previous novel. The attention to detail in describing Thea's musical growth, her inner struggles, and the impact of her environment felt particularly rich and fulfilling.

It's a story of a young woman defying expectations in a time when women were largely confined to domestic roles. It's a story of talent and dedication, but also of the loneliness and sacrifices that such relentless pursuit demands. It left me pondering the delicate balance between personal fulfillment and meaningful relationships, and the potential cost of prioritizing one over the other. Yes, "The Song of the Lark" is lengthy, and its pacing may not suit all readers, but its beauty and depth make it a truly worthwhile read. If you enjoy character-driven narratives with rich descriptions and profound thematic explorations, this is definitely a book to add to your list.