Keynotes

Published in 1893, 'Keynotes' is a collection of short stories by George Egerton, the pen name of Mary Chavelita Dunne. The work is notable for its exploration of femininity, emotional complexity, and the struggles of women against societal expectations. Through various female characters, Egerton delves into themes of desire, identity, and the psychological nuances of human relationships, marking her as a precursor to modernist literature. Her innovative approach to the interior lives of women and focus on sexual desire positions 'Keynotes' as a significant contribution to feminist fiction and the development of the modern short story.