

Love can transcend generations of animosity, but only if we dare to break down the walls we inherit
Read full overviewShow less›
In 'The Wall Between', Sara Ware Bassett weaves a poignant tale of love, family feuds, and the barriers that divide us. Set against the backdrop of two neighboring farms in New Hampshire, the story explores the longstanding animosity between the Howe and Webster families, rooted in a feud over a wall that symbolizes much more than a physical boundary. Through the lives of Martin Howe and Lucy Webster, Bassett delves into the complexities of human relationships, the weight of tradition, and the transformative power of love. Readers will encounter characters who grapple with their histories and must choose between maintaining old grudges or forging new paths towards understanding and connection. This exploration of interpersonal conflict and resolution is both timeless and relevant, offering insights into our own lives and relationships today.
In 'The Wall Between', Sara Ware Bassett explores the intricate dynamics of love, family, and the barriers that divide us. Through the experiences of Martin Howe and Lucy Webster, the narrative reveals how deeply ingrained animosities can shape our lives and relationships, but also how the power of love can inspire us to break down those walls. The characters' journeys towards understanding and reconciliation serve as a reminder that while the past may loom large, it does not have to dictate our future. By confronting our histories and choosing connection over conflict, we can forge new paths and foster deeper relationships. This story resonates with anyone who has grappled with the complexities of family and the enduring hope for love and unity, making it a timeless exploration of the human condition.
- 1The Symbolism of the Wall
- 2Martin Howe: A Reluctant Farmer
- 3Lucy Webster: The Catalyst of Change
- 4Ellen Webster: The Guardian of Tradition
- 5The Role of Community
Notable quotes
“Great-grandfather Jabez Howe quibbled with Great-grandfather Abiatha Webster for a lifetime, and both went down into the tomb still quibbling over the enigma.”
“Farming was not the calling he would have chosen. He neither liked it, nor was he endowed with that intuitive sixth sense on which so many farmers rely for guidance.”
“It was useless to pretend that Ellen's death did not bring to Lucy Webster a sense of relief and freedom.”
A glimpse inside

The wall that separates the Howe and Webster farms serves as a powerful symbol of the barriers that exist not just in physical space, but also in human relationships. Read moreThe wall that separates the Howe and Webster farms serves as a powerful symbol of the barriers that exist not just in physical space, but also in human relationships. Built over a century ago, this wall has become a manifestation of a feud that spans generations, illustrating how unresolved conflicts can fester and grow over time. The wall represents not only the literal division of land but also the emotional and social estrangement between families. As the characters navigate their lives, the wall becomes a constant reminder of their shared history and the grudges that have been passed down. Through this symbolism, Bassett invites readers to consider the walls in their own lives—those barriers that prevent connection and understanding, and the importance of addressing them to foster reconciliation. Show less
Martin Howe embodies the struggle between personal aspiration and familial duty. Despite his intelligence and dreams of becoming a doctor or lawyer, circumstances thrust… Read moreMartin Howe embodies the struggle between personal aspiration and familial duty. Despite his intelligence and dreams of becoming a doctor or lawyer, circumstances thrust him into the life of a farmer, a role he neither enjoys nor feels competent in. His disdain for manual labor, described as 'damned hard work,' highlights his inner conflict and longing for a more fulfilling life. Bassett paints Martin as a character caught between his responsibilities and his dreams, illustrating the tension many face when their desires clash with societal and familial expectations. This internal struggle is exacerbated by the weight of the Howe-Webster feud, which stifles his ability to seek happiness. Through Martin's journey, readers are reminded of the importance of pursuing one's passions and the impact of external pressures on personal fulfillment. Show less
Read the full text — free
About the author
Read Sara Ware Bassett's work free on Lumina — the complete text plus an 8-minute summary and key ideas, no account needed




