One the greatest pleasures of a reader is to be swept up into a book in such a way that you can envision yourself living within its pages. I’m sure I’m not the only one who has imagined what it would be like to live like a character in a Rosemunde Pilcher novel.
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How to Live Like a Rosamunde Pilcher Character
When life gets to be a bit too much, readers of fiction have a ready escape within the pages of a book. But perhaps we can extend that respite by incorporating a bit of our favorite books in our daily lives.
Let’s take a look at the imaginary worlds created by Rosamunde Pilcher and see if there is anything we can use to inspire our own life.
Key Elements
Coastal living…
If you are fortunate enough to live by the sea you’ve got this one covered. And lucky you! But for the rest of us we’ll need to use our imagination. Consider playing recordings of ocean surf on Spotify, Apple or YouTube. Or invest in a sound machine. Is there anything more soothing than falling asleep to the sound of the sea?
You can also add a bit of a coastal vibe in your home decor. Consider a few nautical items such as a painting of an old ship or a dish full of small shells.
Dress the part…
Choose classic, well-tailored clothing. If weather allows, consider wool skirts, cardigans and wellies for your daily walks. For serious walks through the countryside you might even want a sturdy walking stick.
Make home a sanctuary…
This is one of my favorite aspects of a Pilcher novel. Her ability to create a vivid picture of a cosy home life is second to none. A crackling fire, a kettle at the ready on an Aga stove, the scrubbed pine kitchen table, fresh flowers and comfortable furniture all create a home that is like a warm hug.
Create a warm atmosphere in your home with lots of candles, lamps rather than harsh overhead lighting, soft pillows and throws on sofas, old oil paintings on the walls and plenty of personal items collected over time. This isn’t the sort of look that one acquires from a trip to Ikea. Check out local antique and thrift shops, instead.
Leisurely activities…
The typical activities of a Pilcher character often include such things as long walks, gardening, picnics or sailing. While sailing isn’t an option for most of us, we can certainly embrace a daily walk.
Plant a garden if you can but even a few pots of herbs or flowers to tend can help you create a similar vibe.
Bake something delicious…
The obvious choice is scones. These are simple to make and are a perfect addition to afternoon tea.
Dark Chocolate Cranberry Scones Recipe
Teatime…
Of course one cannot begin to channel a Rosamunde Pilcher character without tea. Someone is always putting a kettle on the hob and offering a guest a cup of tea.
Whether you use an old fashioned kettle or an electric version, make regular cups of tea a part of your daily life.
How to Brew the Perfect “Cuppa” Tea
Home-cooked meals…
Choose cozy, hearty dishes with a nod toward the traditional cuisine of the British Isles. Here are a few suggestions:
Breakfast – a steaming hot bowl of porridge, toast with marmalade, and a pot of tea
Lunch – a hearty bowl of soup and some crusty bread
Teatime – scones with clotted cream and jam, a pot of tea
Dinner – shepherd’s pie (rich and meaty topped with creamy mashed potatoes)
Family ties…
Family relationships feature heavily in Pilcher novels. Make those bonds a priority by spending quality time with family, whether they are family by birth or choice. And don’t forget to maintain bonds with extended family, as well. With the holidays coming up, this is a good time to reconnect with loved ones near and far.
Participate in community…
A lovely aspect of Pilcher novels is the spirit of community they evoke. Support small, local shops when you can. Get involved in community events and volunteer opportunities. Be an active and contributing member of your community.
Embrace romance…
At their very core, Rosamunde Pilcher novels are about romance. If you are in a relationship, focus on creating a deep connection and emotional intimacy. And if there isn’t currently anyone special in your life, embrace the possibility of encountering love in unexpected places.
Resilience…
One of the things I appreciate about so many British novels is the resilience, tenacity and courage expressed by so many characters. Perhaps it has something to do with the extreme difficulties faced by the population during WWII. That struggle seems to have embedded itself in the nation’s psyche and created an enviable degree of resilience. When life feels challenging, I look to the British for inspiration.
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A few Pilcher favorites…
Favorite short story…
Home For the Day which can be found in this collection:
You may also enjoy…
LWD Book Club ~ The End of Summer
Love this post!!! Cozy!
Thanks! I’m glad you enjoyed it.
This is a wonderful post. Having read all her books and stories over and over, I agree with your assessment and have indeed incorporated many of these habits into my life. I certainly need to reinforce some of them now, with life becoming more uncertain by the hour. I re-read September every September! But my favorite, after Coming Home, is Under Gemini. (And I LOVE the story, “Home for the Day.” Thanks for a lovely post!
I’m so glad you enjoyed this post. I’m not 100% certain if I’ve read Under Gemini. I *thought* I had read all of hers but now I’m not sure.
So lovely! I love all of her books. The Shell Seekers has accompanied me to a beach/cruise vacation more than once over the years!
I just adore her books!
This is a wonderful post
Thank you! So glad you enjoyed it. 🙂
I love Rosamund Pilcher’s books and the cozy home setting that her stories take place.
I really think she does that cozy home thing so well.