Interim, the fifth novella in Dorothy Richardson's semi-autobiographical work, Pilgrimage, revolves around Miriam Henderson’s residence in a London boarding house and her interactions with a number of new residents. Miriam initially keeps to herself, observing from a distance and continuing to take meals elsewhere on her own. But she is gradually drawn into the little community, first as a French tutor for the landlady’s daughter, and then through mealtime conversations, especially with a group of doctors training in London. She seems to appreciate the company of these well-educated men and holds her own with another gentleman who enjoys speaking with her in French.

Events are told not just from Miriam’s point of view, but as if you are in the midst of her very thoughts. Details that are already known to Miriam are often not explained to the reader, and the setting and timeframe are sometimes unclear. Every time I finish one of these books I’m not quite sure what to make of it, but I am interested enough in Miriam’s story to keep reading. ( )