The Custom of the Country audiobook by Edith Wharton

In the tranquil setting of my backyard garden, surrounded by blooming flowers and the soothing sound of chirping birds, I immersed myself in the captivating world of The Custom of the Country audiobook by Edith Wharton. This literary masterpiece explores the desire for social status and the consequences that come with it, through the compelling story of Undine Spragg.

Undine, like many women around the world, dreams of climbing the social ladder. Faced with hardships and struggling to make ends meet, she decides to take a shortcut by marrying a wealthy man. With her sights set on New York City, Undine leads her family to this vibrant metropolis, leaving no room for objections from her parents.

Upon arriving in New York, Undine is determined to integrate herself into high society. She attends parties and social gatherings, forging connections with the upper class. Initially, her plan seems successful, but as time goes on, she realizes what she is sacrificing in pursuit of her desires. Her husband, once highly respected and wealthy, begins slipping away from her grasp due to the ideas she has planted in his mind.

Edith Wharton skillfully examines what truly matters in life beyond wealth and social status. The characters in her novels, such as The Age of Innocence and The House of Mirth, demonstrate that even those with material abundance can experience dissatisfaction. Undine’s realization comes at a great cost as she loses much along her journey. Barbara Caruso narrates this thought-provoking novel with simplicity and clarity.