The Cage (Weiss book)

The Cage is a 1992 science fiction novel by American author Ruth Rendell, published under the pseudonym Barbara Vine. Although Vine was known for her crime fiction and psychological thrillers, The Cage explores themes of social isolation, environmentalism, and the complex relationships within a seemingly ordinary community.

The novel centers on the life of Frances Wingate, a woman who lives in a remote house on the Suffolk coast of England. She is isolated both geographically and emotionally, having retreated from the world after a personal tragedy. Her primary contact with the outside world is through her local postman, James Ritchie, and the occasional visitor.

The Cage refers to the name Frances gives to the secluded area surrounding her house, emphasizing her self-imposed confinement and the psychological barriers she has erected to protect herself. It serves as a metaphor for her emotional state and her fear of connection. The plot unfolds as James becomes increasingly entangled in Frances's life and the secrets she holds, revealing a network of interconnected relationships and hidden desires within the small community. The book delves into the motivations behind Frances's withdrawal from society and the consequences of her choices.