Temporal Settings - 1941-1985

The temporal settings are paramount in The Echoes of Old Books. They set a backdrop for Hemi and Belle as they attempt to navigate their romance, which is doomed due to class distinctions and family politics. Because of societal and familial expectations, Belle and Hemi have difficulty maintaining a relationship as it would be taboo for Belle to marry a journalist rather than one of New York’s elite.

Since The Echoes of Old Books is set in 1941, the reader can see how much World War II affected people across the world, regardless of their involvement in the war. In 1941, Britain was already involved in the war whereas the United States was on the brink of joining the fight. This resulted in heated political discussions between Hemi and others. Furthermore, the time period amplified Martin’s reason for killing Helene: He joined the political conversation...