Virginia Woolf 
The Common Reader – Second Series (1935) 

In ‘The Common Reader – Second Series’ (1935), Virginia Woolf delves into the world of literature, exploring various works and authors with her insightful and eloquent prose. This collection of essays showcases Woolf’s unique and pioneering literary criticism, shedding light on the significance of different literary works in the literary landscape of her time. Through her critical analysis and deep engagement with the texts, Woolf invites readers to think critically about the art of writing and the impact of literature on society. Her writing style is both intellectual and accessible, making the book a valuable resource for literature enthusiasts and scholars alike. Virginia Woolf’s exploration of the common reader and their interpretation of literary works speaks to her profound understanding of the human experience and the power of storytelling. Her keen observations and thoughtful reflections offer readers a new perspective on the world of literature, making ‘The Common Reader – Second Series’ a must-read for anyone interested in the art of writing and the beauty of language.

About the author

Virginia Woolf (1882-1941) was an iconic English writer, a pioneer in the use of stream of consciousness as a narrative device, and a central figure of the Bloomsbury Group. Woolf’s work is characterized by its depth in exploring the inner lives of her characters, focusing on the psychological rather than external events. Born Adeline Virginia Stephen in London to a literary family, she began writing professionally in the early 20th century. Woolf’s novels, such as ‘Mrs. Dalloway’ (1925), ‘To the Lighthouse’ (1927), and ‘Orlando’ (1928), have left an indelible mark on literary modernism. Her extended essay ‘A Room of One’s Own’ (1929) remains a powerful feminist text, arguing for both literal and figurative space for women writers within a literary tradition dominated by men. ‘The Common Reader – Second Series’ (1935), a collection of essays, showcases Woolf’s talents as a critic and highlights her interest in the lives and works of writers and the art of reading. Despite facing mental health challenges throughout her life, Woolf’s contribution to literature and her explorations of class, sex, and empire in the context of her post-Victorian society have immortalized her as a key figure in the study of the modern novel.