Beyond the Glass (1954).

By Antonia White

The third book in a trilogy, White’s novel appears to be written in the vein of late Modernism.  White herself spent time in the Bethlem Asylum – her recollection of her time in asylum is credited as giving her insights into madness that are represented with striking reality in her novel.  Main character Clara’s breakdown is realistically portrayed, from early signs to full-blown psychosis.  This novel serves as a useful reminder of the developments in psychiatry and attitudes towards madness over the past 60 years through the sense of hopelessness that is felt about Clara’s recovery.  Societal expectations of, and pressures upon, women have phenomenal impact in this novel, with implications of the repression of love and passion leading to mental breakdown.