The Witches of Eastwick by John Updike (First Edition 1984)
The Witches of Eastwick by John Updike (First Edition 1984)
"The Witches of Eastwick" by John Updike, published in 1984, is a novel that tells the story of three women—Alexandra, Jane, and Sukie—who live in the small town of Eastwick, Rhode Island. Each of these women possesses unique traits and desires, feeling constrained by their roles as mothers and wives in a conservative society.
Their lives take a turn when a mysterious and charismatic man, Daryl Van Horne, arrives in town. He embodies both allure and danger, awakening their latent powers and desires. As the women become more involved with Daryl, they embrace their identities and supernatural abilities, leading to transformative and often chaotic consequences.
The novel explores themes of female empowerment, sexuality, and the struggle against societal norms. It blends magical realism with sharp social commentary, highlighting the tension between desire and societal expectations. Updike’s rich prose and insightful character development make the story both engaging and thought-provoking, as it examines the complexities of women’s lives and the darker sides of ambition and freedom.