What are your first impressions of Mrs. Hattingh?
“I am used to culinary economy, to careful pride” – page 4. Our main character shares this with us when talking about the wealth of Mrs. Hattingh. Does this concept of “culinary economy” still resonate in modern households where budgets must be carefully managed?
Soraya makes a comment that Mrs. Hattingh is “one of those”. Soraya mentions that her mother would have responded with a stock response. What do you make of Soraya’s lack of response?
Why do you think Mrs. Hattingh waited to tell Soraya that this would be a live-in position?
When giving the tour of the home Mrs. Hattingh becomes an entirely different person. What do you make of this switch?
Soraya observes Mrs. Hattingh’s fingers. Soraya compares Mrs. Hattingh’s fingers to her mothers. She notes that most of the girls’ sneer at their madams. Is Soraya redirecting similar judgment toward her own mother instead?
Mrs. Hattingh’s room contrasts with the rest of the house. Despite the house’s general decline, why might she preserve this particular space while allowing everything else to deteriorate?
Soraya notices distinct scents in her room, the house, and Mrs. Hattingh’s bedroom. How might these different smells reflect the emotional atmosphere of each space?
From what dangers might Soraya need to shield herself with the bolt left by Fatima?
What do you think of Soraya’s Duties?
When searching for spices, Soraya asks Mrs. Hattingh where she can find them. In their conversation, Mrs. Hattingh claims that her “days are filled with good deeds for the world”. Is she trying to convince Soraya or herself?
“And it comes to me now that the thing about an obedient face is not that it doesn’t work but that it works too well, that eventually it becomes the face you wear all day without even trying.” – Page 21
What do you think of the above quote? Do you agree with Soraya’s observation?
We are introduced to the Gray Women. What do you think of them?
We learn that Soraya is a storyteller who often shares these stories with the children of the Quarter. What do you make of her stories?
Beyond financial constraints, why else might Mrs. Hattingh allow her home to deteriorate?
What do you think of the painting in Mrs. Hattingh’s bedroom? Why do you think Soraya isn’t allowed to touch her face?
Mrs. Hattingh says she sold the paintings due to Mr. Hattingh’s death. But why do you think she actually sold the paintings?
Do you think Rosa was speaking to Soraya at the end of Chapter Three? Or was it Soraya’s imaginations?
14 responses to “Cape Fever Day One”
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What are your first impressions of Mrs. Hattingh?
The words patronising and privileged come to mind, but she also seems guarded and like she has reason to be protective of herself and her space.
“I am used to culinary economy, to careful pride” – page 4. Our main character shares this with us when talking about the wealth of Mrs. Hattingh. Does this concept of “culinary economy” still resonate in modern households where budgets must be carefully managed?
Yes, absolutely. Being mindful with meat in dishes, and frequency of use, is a budget-friendly mindset to this day.
Soraya makes a comment that Mrs. Hattingh is “one of those”. Soraya mentions that her mother would have responded with a stock response. What do you make of Soraya’s lack of response?
Well, the saying “if you don’t have anything nice to say then don’t say anything at all” is a mark of politeness in its own way.
Why do you think Mrs. Hattingh waited to tell Soraya that this would be a live-in position?
It’s a lot more work, and a greater demand on time. It was a manipulative move, knowing someone in need of work would struggle to say no when faced with the prospect of a position potentially right in front of them.
When giving the tour of the home Mrs. Hattingh becomes an entirely different person. What do you make of this switch?
I think Soraya’s observation that it was an awkward position for her to be in, without a housekeeper on hand, hit the nail on the head.
Soraya observes Mrs. Hattingh’s fingers. Soraya compares Mrs. Hattingh’s fingers to her mothers. She notes that most of the girls’ sneer at their madams. Is Soraya redirecting similar judgment toward her own mother instead?
Not judgment of her mother, but perhaps jealousy for herself and her own want of delicate, untouched hands as she starts her new hands-on role.
Mrs. Hattingh’s room contrasts with the rest of the house. Despite the house’s general decline, why might she preserve this particular space while allowing everything else to deteriorate?
It felt to me like her sanctuary and what she needs to hold onto and preserve for her sanity in a large, lonely space.
Soraya notices distinct scents in her room, the house, and Mrs. Hattingh’s bedroom. How might these different smells reflect the emotional atmosphere of each space?
I think scent can be such a strong indicator of mood. They can be light and fun or dark and ominous. I hope the former for her sake.
From what dangers might Soraya need to shield herself with the bolt left by Fatima?
This felt very ominous to me, and like foreshadowing. Is her being separate to the rest of the house for her safety? I wonder if Fatima, or whoever the Grey Woman is, is trying to protect her from something.
What do you think of Soraya’s Duties?
I’m not sure when she’s supposed to rest, if ever.
When searching for spices, Soraya asks Mrs. Hattingh where she can find them. In their conversation, Mrs. Hattingh claims that her “days are filled with good deeds for the world”. Is she trying to convince Soraya or herself?
I think she needs to feel useful. Coming right after criticising Soraya for not immediately remembering where the spices are, it’s a bit rich.
“And it comes to me now that the thing about an obedient face is not that it doesn’t work but that it works too well, that eventually it becomes the face you wear all day without even trying.” – Page 21
What do you think of the above quote? Do you agree with Soraya’s observation?I do agree. Understandably, obedience can become nonchalant or apathetic over time.
We are introduced to the Gray Women. What do you think of them?
I love this dark and cryptic turn in the story. I hope we see a lot more of them, whether they’re Soraya’s imagination or otherwise.
We learn that Soraya is a storyteller who often shares these stories with the children of the Quarter. What do you make of her stories?
I think it’s either foreshadowing or foreboding. Does she create the stories or see things in the world differently?
Beyond financial constraints, why else might Mrs. Hattingh allow her home to deteriorate?
I think it could be her longing for her son to come home, and maybe she wants to create a reason to ensure that he does.
What do you think of the painting in Mrs. Hattingh’s bedroom? Why do you think Soraya isn’t allowed to touch her face?
I wonder if there is a family connection. There’s definitely more to it than meets the eye. As for not touching the face, I’m not sure but I kind of hope it’s something creepy. 😂
Mrs. Hattingh says she sold the paintings due to Mr. Hattingh’s death. But why do you think she actually sold the paintings?
Perhaps the portraits were a reminder of the lack of faces in her home.
Do you think Rosa was speaking to Soraya at the end of Chapter Three? Or was it Soraya’s imaginations?
I’d like to think Rosa was speaking, but I suspect it was in Soraya’s head. Or maybe a feeling because of a potential connection to Rosa.
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1. What are your first impressions of Mrs Hattingh?
Honestly, I didn’t like her. The constant references to “your people” felt uncomfortable and othering. She tries to come across as someone who can relate to Soraya, but it ends up feeling quite condescending and performative.
2. “I am used to culinary economy.” Our main character shares this while reflecting on Mrs Hattingh’s wealth. Does this idea of “culinary economy” still resonate in modern households where budgets must be carefully managed?
Absolutely. We’re living in a time where the cost of living is incredibly high, and everything feels more expensive than ever. “Culinary economy” still resonates deeply. For many households, budgeting isn’t optional, it’s part of everyday life.
3. Soraya makes a comment that Mrs Hattingh is “one of those.” She also notes that her mother would have had a stock response. What do you make of Soraya’s lack of response?I think Soraya is still trying to figure Mrs Hattingh out at this point. She’s observant, but also cautious. Given that this is still the interview, she’s likely being very careful about how she responds and what she reveals, choosing restraint over reaction.
4. Why do you think Mrs Hattingh waited to tell Soraya that this would be a live-in position?
I think Mrs Hattingh did this deliberately, knowing that Soraya was in need of the job. It feels quite calculated. There’s also an element of exploitation in her behaviour, especially considering the social and historical context the story is set in.
5. When giving the tour of the home, Mrs Hattingh becomes an entirely different person. What do you make of this switch?
I found Mrs Hattingh quite manipulative during the interview, especially when she revealed that the position was live-in. This shift during the tour feels more aligned with her true nature, more controlled and performative. That said, Soraya notes that it would usually be the housekeeper showing the housemaid around, so this could also be Mrs Hattingh trying to maintain a certain image or uphold appearances.
6. Soraya observes Mrs Hattingh’s fingers and compares them to her mother’s. She also notes that most of the girls sneer at their madams. Is Soraya redirecting similar judgment toward her own mother instead?
I think Soraya isn’t so much judging her mother as she is noticing a contrast she wishes for herself. She admires her father’s hands and wants her own to remain delicate and “feminine,” rather than roughened from the labour-filled life of the women in her family. It feels like a quiet wish to preserve a part of herself that she sees as beautiful and separate from that world.
7. Mrs Hattingh’s room contrasts with the rest of the house. Despite the house’s general decline, why might she preserve this particular space while allowing everything else to deteriorate?
I think Mrs Hattingh preserves her room as a space of control and image. While the rest of the house reflects neglect or deterioration, her personal room is carefully maintained, a kind of curated self-presentation. It shows that appearances matter to her, and that she prioritizes the spaces that reflect her status, identity, or sense of authority over the practical upkeep of the rest of the home.
8. Soraya notices distinct scents in her room, the house, and Mrs Hattingh’s bedroom. How might these different smells reflect the emotional atmosphere of each space?
Soraya’s room, the housemaid’s room, smells musty and damp, reflecting neglect, discomfort, and her lower position in the household hierarchy. The house carries the sharp, preserved scents of mothballs and wax polish, a mixture of control and deterioration. Thus, an attempt at maintaining appearances despite decline. Mrs Hattingh’s room, in contrast, smells of dried rose petals and lavender, carefully curated to feel refined and luxurious. These distinct scents mirror the emotional and social atmosphere of each space, highlighting hierarchy, control, and the contrast between genuine life and performative presentation.
9. From what dangers might Soraya need to shield herself with the bolt left by Fatima (the previous housemaid)?
Since Soraya is living in, the bolt offers her a sense of safety (given that it’s an outside room) and privacy in her own space. It ensures that she can controlled access to her space, protecting herself from being locked in or intruded upon unexpectedly. It’s a small but important measure of autonomy and security in a household where she has little power.
10. What do you think of Soraya’s duties?
Overall, I think her duties were thorough and detailed, which makes sense given the household. However, I was really triggered by Mrs Hattingh insisting that Soraya must only use the utensils she provides and nothing else. This reflects the power imbalance in the household, but also the colonial mindset of the 1920s, where white employers often treated people of colour as “contaminated” or “unclean.” It’s a small rule that exposes the social and racial hierarchies of the time.
11. When searching for spices, Soraya asks Mrs Hattingh where she can find them. In their conversation, Mrs Hattingh claims that “her days are filled with good deeds for the world.” Is she trying to convince herself or Soraya?
Oh, she’s definitely trying to convince herself. It feels performative, like she’s repeating this idea to justify her actions and maintain her self-image, rather than genuinely trying to impress Soraya.
12. “And it comes to me now that the thing about an obedient face is not that it doesn’t work, but that it works too well, that eventually it becomes the face you wear all day without even trying” (PG 21). What do you think of the above quote? Do you agree with Soraya’s observation?
Yes, I completely agree. When you’re accustomed to schooling your face and masking your feelings, it eventually becomes second nature. That obedient expression can slip into every interaction without conscious thought, reflecting the ways in which social expectations and power dynamics shape behaviour.13. We are introduced to the Gray Women. What do you think of them?
The entire idea of the Gray Women is genuinely unsettling. What makes it even creepier is that Soraya talks about them so casually, as if it’s normal, which just adds to the eeriness. 🤭😅
14. We learn that Soraya is a storyteller who often shares these stories with the children of the Quarter. What do you make of her stories?
As much as I think Soraya has a genuine knack for telling a good story, they’re definitely scary and they frighten the children. Her talent for storytelling is impressive, but it also carries a darker, cautionary edge.
15. Beyond financial constraints, why else might Mrs Hattingh allow her home to deteriorate?
I don’t think Mrs Hattingh would ever clean her own house. She would see that as beneath her. She’s too focused on her “good deeds” and maintaining her self-image. The cleaning of the house, is the “help’s” job.
16. What do you think of the painting in Mrs Hattingh’s bedroom? Why do you think Soraya isn’t allowed to touch her face?
I think Mrs Hattingh doesn’t want Soraya “dirtying” her painting. It’s very much a look-but-don’t-touch situation. Admired from a distance, controlled and untouchable. Soraya, as the housemaid, is supposed to know her place: she can clean and dust, but she isn’t allowed to interact with or touch the painting.
17. Mrs Hattingh says she sold the paintings due to Mr Hattingh’s death. But why do you think she actually sold the paintings?
I think she sold them because of her financial situation. While she frames it as a personal or emotional choice, it likely came down to money and the practical need to support herself.
18. Do you think Rosa was speaking to Soraya at the end of Chapter 3? Or was it Soraya’s imagination?
I’m going with the latter. Given Soraya’s knack for storytelling and vivid imagination, it feels like this encounter is all in her head. A reflection of her own thoughts and creativity rather than a real conversation.
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Like the blurb said, she seems eccentric but she also doesn’t seem to care what she says about other races/cultures.
I think the concept still exists – we even have cookbooks around the concept of culinary economy, take Foodies of SA’s cookbook for example.
1. I think that in a way it means that it is a slight defiance that her mother would never have done.
2. She waited because she knew that Soraya would have said no if she had started with that.
3. I think the switch was Mrs Hattingh showing Soraya that she is “the boss” when it comes to the house.
4. I think that in a way Soraya is redirecting her judgement towards her mother’s working hands compared to Mrs Hattingh’s because she would rather have beautiful hands than one’s worn down from manual labour.
5. Maybe because it is the only space for her – the rest of the house may hold memories of her husband and son, so she doesn’t want to touch it.
6. I think that the wrongness of Soraya’s room reflects how Fatima felt – alone, taken away from her family to work. When speaking of the house’s scent, while there’s a lot of references to dust, Soraya mentions the lack of smell which I think links to how neglected the house has become since she contrasts it to the Quarter where smells stay. And then we have Mrs Hattingh’s room which smells like dried flowers and sprigs of fresh lavender which might show us her sense of control because of how she controls her garden…
7. Probably from Mrs Hattingh or from her husband when he was still alive.
8. I think that list of duties are unrealistic! How can one person do all of that in a house as big as that?! Especially since it’s a dust-trap.
9. I think that Mrs Hattingh is trying to convince herself.
10. I do agree with Soraya, if you have to spend days not being able to speak out that “obedience” becomes automatic and you stop trying to speak up.
11. I have no idea who the Grey Women are but their description freaked me out… Are they spirits or just her imagination? The genre stood out to me when we were introduced to the Grey Women 😅
12. I think she’s a great storyteller who likes to add suspense to her stories. That’s why I kept wondering what was really or what was her imagination in the book – are they Grey Women real or just a story?
13. Despite having an emotional attachment to everything in the house, what Soraya mentioned was Mrs. Hattingh’s pride – she doesn’t have the staff required to run such a big house and as we see she expects Soraya to do everything.
14. That painting creeped me out as well. Why does Soraya have such a pull towards it that she started speaking to it? And why is Mrs. Hattingh so weird about it, the fact that its only displayed now that Soraya is there…and that it looks like her…
15. She sold them because she said that she never liked the type of paintings he like, so while it could ease the financial burden, she also didn’t have any attachment to them and could now do what she wanted with them.
16. Soraya is such an unreliable narrator, why do I believe that Rosa was actually speaking to her? 😂 I think it’s Mrs. Hattingh’s weird attachment to it that makes anything possible right now!
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1. I feel like I expected her character to be like this lol… but her comments about “your people” really threw me off.
2. In this day and age, especially with the economy, budgeting with food is still done… healthier food seems to be much more expensive than processed foods and goodies which forces majority households to eat unhealthily
3. She’s still young, at 19. She’s working to find for herself. Due to lack of security, she has to “watch what she says” to protect her job.
Additionally, this is her first interview with the lady so first impression matters a lot.4. Exploitary reasons for one.
She waited yo see what kind of person Soraya was before informing her that it was a live in position.5. She’s reminiscing with each room she walks past… each holding different emotions for her. This tour seemed to reveal more about Mrs Hattingh than she would have liked.
6. I think she’s looking for a connection. Her inner monologues makes it seem like shes lowkey better than other helpers to some extent.. like she knows better than to do something like that by disrespecting her employer even internally.
7. its her safe space. Its the one thing she is able to keep it as it were before the big change that clearly happened to her as Soraya pointed out.
8. Scents are linked to emotional connections. With each scent brings up different memories, different situations.
Additionally, its highlighting the type of person in each room, what status they have.9. Housekeepers aren’t as protected as much as the owner of the house. The bolt to me signified a sense of power being handed to Soraya, allowing herself to protect herself whilst also showing how unpredictable her situation is … protection against the unknown.
10. Extensive, but expected.
Mrs Hattingh’s insistence on Soraya using utensils provided and only that highlights great power imbalances.
The rich, feeling “dirty” to share utensils with the help so they have to use a separate one to avoid contamination. This being mentioned in the book was a powerful move.11. Lol… she’s DEFINITELY trying to convince herself. It felt like a comment made to herself rather than Soraya. It’s as though she needs to use Soraya to justify her actions.
12. Yes, it comes to a point, especially from Soraya’s pov that obedience becomes performative, the perfected art.. to surviving in that era.
13. It’s something.. I’d say lol
It’s scary to a point but also very interesting as to her role in this story.14.I think she’s imaginative. However, one would expect her to tell stories of kindness and a fairytale world where everyone is happy. It was different to see her telling such scary stories.
15. Hit to the ego. The loss of her husband.
16. To keep the power balance up. Again with the rich people vs poor people and knowing their place
17. I dont think she actually liked them. Usually people buy stuff to show that they have money no matter how hideous it is lol.. she finally had a reason to get rid of them
18. For the sake of her mental health i hope she actually was.. but she’s prone to making up stories.. so I’m still on the edge with that.
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1) I have mixed feelings about her – she seems a very “proper” woman, and she holds herself in high regard. It is obvious that she thinks herself better than others. A very “forward thinking” woman – but still very much the a woman of the time with ingrained biases/prejudices.
2) I definitely think so – being able to make do with the little you have, in the kitchen.
3) It shows Soraya is very careful and doesn’t want to give away too much – especially her intelligence.
4) Mrs. Hattingh knew it would be an immediate deal-breaker – even if the job itself was simple. Waiting to tell her it is a live-in job also indicates there is something she [Mrs. Hattingh] is hiding.
5) Mrs. Hattingh takes on the role of someone much more authoritative that the naive “woman of the house” in the beginning. Showing that this is her house and things must be done as she likes / wants them to be.
6) In a way yes – but only in the sense that she wants to have the smooth hands & fingers of Mrs. Hattingh, just like her father’s. Hands that are not broken by work, but manicured by jobs that don’t require hard labour.
7) Her room is her space, her sanctuary – this may be why this space seems to be heavy with ornaments and decor. It’s solely hers, when everything goes at least she has her room.
8) The scents she describes immediately draws up different emotions – Mrs. H’s room is all florals and softness, a potential safe space, where the house is stale with the scent of mothballs – an old, forgotten space. Alone. And her own room, smell’s wrong, uninviting, as if it is trying to scare her away from a space that is meant to be hers.
9) At this point, I’m not sure. Can a bolt keep out spirits?
10) Her duties seem pretty simple and nothing too intense.
11) Both – I think she is at first trying to convince Soraya that she is a good person, but also herself.
12) Yes – I absolutely agree. You become what you practice. The more she puts on this face of obedience, the more it becomes ingrained in her nature. Even if she doesn’t mean it to.
13) I really want to know more about the Gray Women – I can’t place if they are good or bad spirits, or something in-between.
14) They are quite vivid and morbid! She has a very good ability for storytelling.
15) It could be that she is hoping it will ward off anyone else wanting to take her home for themselves, perhaps.
16) It is a very interesting thing to have a portrait of a stranger in your bedroom – especially a young woman. I am not sure why she can’t touch her face. Maybe it’s too familiar/friendly/personal for the spirit, to do so.
17) Because each painting carried a spirit of the person who it was painted of – so perhaps she was being haunted by them.
18) I believe Rosa was speaking to Soraya.
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I don’t dislike her; I think she is a product of her surroundings and the times she was born in. I also felt sorry that her husband made her give up painting, that was sad.
Yes, even more so now as it’s rare to find a one income household; living has become expensive.
I think she’s used to coming across people like Mrs. Hattingh. They grade by race and find comfort in othering people to create separation, giving a base for their discrimination.
Probably to get a feel of Soraya first before announcing it.
I think she takes pride in her house and likes any opportunity to share that w others. I mean she even wants Soraya to change the linen in the guest room every month, even if no guest came.
I don’t think so.
Well, bc she occupies room. In addition, perhaps it’s a way to preserve the memory of her husband, being the room, they shared together.
It’s hard to say since the same smell could mean different things to several people.
Um, well it is a colonial time, there are a myriad of things she could need to shield herself from.
She’s not wrong, they are dull.
Both.
I think the longer you wear a face the safer it becomes to not trade it for another face.
I can’t form an opinion just yet.They’re pretty dark, but they’re more like fables, w hidden lessons within them.
Her husband died, her son is abroad, she’s alone in the house, what’s the point she might think.
To reduce the risk of damage. I’m the same way w my own paintings.
Perhaps she got them to annoy him, ‘why do you insist that we look at these blacks all day.’ Now that he’s gone, she doesn’t have a need to antagonise him so she sold them.
I think it’s a combination of both. Art has a way of communicating to us and it often communicates to us in our own voice.
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1. She is pretentious. She definitely puts on airs. She is prideful, boastful, and vain, too. She seems to be grasping at what ‘little’ she has left, and she seems a bit lost. She is not unkind, but it is the type of kindness the character rightfully, in my opinion, does not truly accept, as it is clear that Mrs. Hattingh is a prejudiced person.
2. I think this type of budgeting has always been around and always will be. It is about being careful with what and how much you buy, but also about how you use those things so as not to waste anything.
3. She would rather not say anything than be forced to say something placating and degrading. I think that is also a way for her to be defiant, as Mrs. Hattingh probably expected some kind of reply.
4. That part confused me a bit. As the story explains, Mrs. Hattingh was worried that Soraya would turn down the position if she knew that was a requirement. It was a requirement because Mrs. Hattingh seemingly wanted it that way for protection. That still confused me, though, because Soraya is a young girl, and I am not sure how much help she would be in a dangerous situation.
5. Maybe she was excited to be showing someone new her house and belongings.
6. I don’t think she is judging her mother. I think she is judging the circumstances that forced her mother to end up with fingers so different from those of Mrs. Hattingh’s.
7. I would think it is because it is her sanctum of sorts. Also, maybe because she sleeps there, she feels like she can keep everything safe in there.
8. I think that depends on what Soraya associates with those smells.
9. Earlier in the book, burglars and baboons are mentioned.
10. They seem like average, old-fashioned household duties to me.
11. Both, I think.
12. Yes, it only makes sense that if you do something for long enough, it can have a lasting effect on you.
13. I find them sad. They must be in pain to have the urge to linger after death for the sake of revenge.
14. She has a wild imagination! I would never have been able to come up with a story like the blood/ink women story of hers.
15. Sadness, maybe. A type of depression brought on by loneliness, possibly.16. I’m not sure what to think of the painting yet. It feels a bit creepy.
17. She sold them because she needed the money.
18. I think it could have been either. Soraya has an active imagination, but she also claims to be able to speak to spirits, and Rosa might be one.
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What are your first impressions of Mrs. Hattingh?
I cant say I like her a lot, she come across as a bit condescending
“I am used to culinary economy, to careful pride” – page 4. Our main character shares this with us when talking about the wealth of Mrs. Hattingh. Does this concept of “culinary economy” still resonate in modern households where budgets must be carefully managed?
I think as everything starts to get more expensive we all looking at ways to make food yummy without costing a fortune, so certainly getting creative with what we can do
Soraya makes a comment that Mrs. Hattingh is “one of those”. Soraya mentions that her mother would have responded with a stock response. What do you make of Soraya’s lack of response?
Sometimes not responding is better than potentially saying the wrong thing.
Why do you think Mrs. Hattingh waited to tell Soraya that this would be a live-in position?
I think it was manipulative, making a conditional to her getting the job and having not been upfront about it.
When giving the tour of the home Mrs. Hattingh becomes an entirely different person. What do you make of this switch?
I would say it’s understandable in a sense, in that they were both uncertain about each other and feeling their way during the interview process. Upon acceptance, Mrs. Hattingh felt more confident, being able to show her what is required and in a more comfortable zone for her.
Soraya observes Mrs. Hattingh’s fingers. Soraya compares Mrs. Hattingh’s fingers to her mothers. She notes that most of the girls’ sneer at their madams. Is Soraya redirecting similar judgment toward her own mother instead?
For me it felt more that she was reflecting on the differences between hard manual labour and the impact on one’s hands, compared to people who have more wealth and how she wants a life that is not so hard it shows on her hands.
Mrs. Hattingh’s room contrasts with the rest of the house. Despite the house’s general decline, why might she preserve this particular space while allowing everything else to deteriorate?
It is the one room she has been able to make her own, where she can be herself more than what society may dictate. Maintaining your place of sanctuary is understandable. Plus it is easier to maintain a small area that you cherish than a whole house.
Soraya notices distinct scents in her room, the house, and Mrs. Hattingh’s bedroom. How might these different smells reflect the emotional atmosphere of each space?
For me the house smell of moth balls and wax polish- reflecting something trying to be preserved/ kept, Mrs. Hattinghs room of dried rose petals and fresh lavender feels lived in. Where her room being musty and all wrong could be due to the previous helper possibly having passed away in the room and it most likely wouldn’t have been cleaned properly.
From what dangers might Soraya need to shield herself with the bolt left by Fatima?
Her reaction to the possibility of a man being in the house made her panic, which leads me to believe she has experienced something unpleasant and feels she needs to be protected from men. So people coming into what will be her personal space.
What do you think of Soraya’s Duties?
They fairly extensive, it is a lot for one person to do.
When searching for spices, Soraya asks Mrs. Hattingh where she can find them. In their conversation, Mrs. Hattingh claims that her “days are filled with good deeds for the world”. Is she trying to convince Soraya or herself?
Most likely herself.
“And it comes to me now that the thing about an obedient face is not that it doesn’t work but that it works too well, that eventually it becomes the face you wear all day without even trying.” – Page 21
What do you think of the above quote? Do you agree with Soraya’s observation?
I think it is fairly insightful, that how we present ourselves can become what we do instinctively and accustomed to doing.
We are introduced to the Gray Women. What do you think of them?
I think they are the ghosts of some sort.
We learn that Soraya is a storyteller who often shares these stories with the children of the Quarter. What do you make of her stories?
They are fairly elaborate and she is quite the storyteller.
Beyond financial constraints, why else might Mrs. Hattingh allow her home to deteriorate?
Partially because there is no one else in this large place to require her to maintain a home. She also doesn’t seem to entertain anyone at her place, so there is little purpose to her trying to maintain a large home but rather section in the home.
What do you think of the painting in Mrs. Hattingh’s bedroom? Why do you think Soraya isn’t allowed to touch her face?
The painting is fairly creepy. Not sure why she isn’t allowed to touch her face…
Mrs. Hattingh says she sold the paintings due to Mr. Hattingh’s death. But why do you think she actually sold the paintings?
She didn’t have the same attachment to them and possibly haunted her
Do you think Rosa was speaking to Soraya at the end of Chapter Three? Or was it Soraya’s imaginations?
I would like to say its her imagination but this house feels like it may be haunted a bit… so maybe it is Rosa speaking to her -
What are your first impressions of Mrs Hattingh?
She comes across as quite snobby and privileged. Not a huge fan of her.
“I am used to culinary economy, to careful pride” – page 4. Our main character shares this with us when talking about the wealth of Mrs Hattingh. Does this concept of “culinary economy” still resonate in modern households where budgets must be carefully managed?
Absolutely. It manifests in how we save certain dishes or outings for special occasions or milestones, too.
Soraya makes a comment that Mrs. Hattingh is “one of those”. Soraya mentions that her mother would have responded with a stock response. What do you make of Soraya’s lack of response?
She knows how people like Mrs. H operates and from past experiences, she’s learned that if she doesn’t have anything nice to say, then it’s best to say nothing at all.
Why do you think Mrs. Hattingh waited to tell Soraya that this would be a live-in position?
To me, it showed that Mrs H is desperate for help and knows that stating this upfront will make the position less appealing. It was a manipulative way to get someone to agree to work they didn’t really want (but perhaps, need).
When giving the tour of the home Mrs. Hattingh becomes an entirely different person. What do you make of this switch?
From the start, it’s clear she is very materialistic and takes pride in her wealth. When she gives Soraya the tour, cracks start to show, which explains why she acts differently.
Soraya observes Mrs. Hattingh’s fingers. Soraya compares Mrs. Hattingh’s fingers to her mothers. She notes that most of the girls’ sneer at their madams. Is Soraya redirecting similar judgment toward her own mother instead?
It didn’t feel that way. Perhaps just a reflection of the class difference and one more thing that sets Soraya apart.
Mrs. Hattingh’s room contrasts with the rest of the house. Despite the house’s general decline, why might she preserve this particular space while allowing everything else to deteriorate?
It feels like her room is her safe space and she wants to keep it that way, even when everything else is falling apart around her.
Soraya notices distinct scents in her room, the house, and Mrs. Hattingh’s bedroom. How might these different smells reflect the emotional atmosphere of each space?
Her bedroom’s smells are carefully curated to reflect wealth and luxury. It feels calculated, almost as if she is saying she doesn’t care about any place she deems lesser (like Soraya’s room, which smells musty and damp), as long as her space is good.
From what dangers might Soraya need to shield herself with the bolt left by Fatima?
It offers her a sense of safety and privacy, potentially preventing Mrs. H from barging in and making ridiculous demands,
What do you think of Soraya’s Duties?
The lists were quite intense, but very detailed. I felt overwhelmed for her and the amount of things she needed to remember.
When searching for spices, Soraya asks Mrs. Hattingh where she can find them. In their conversation, Mrs. Hattingh claims that her “days are filled with good deeds for the world”. Is she trying to convince Soraya or herself?
A bit of both, I think. It continously feels like Mrs H feels like she needs to prove her status to Soraya (even if perceived).
“And it comes to me now that the thing about an obedient face is not that it doesn’t work but that it works too well, that eventually it becomes the face you wear all day without even trying.” – Page 21
What do you think of the above quote? Do you agree with Soraya’s observation?Agreed. When you always find yourself in situations where you can’t be yourself and have to wear that mask, it just becomes second nature.
We are introduced to the Gray Women. What do you think of them?
Unsettling!
We learn that Soraya is a storyteller who often shares these stories with the children of the Quarter. What do you make of her stories?
It feels like Soraya is a Gray Woman herself, to be honest.
Beyond financial constraints, why else might Mrs. Hattingh allow her home to deteriorate?
She would see cleaning as beneath her.
What do you think of the painting in Mrs. Hattingh’s bedroom? Why do you think Soraya isn’t allowed to touch her face?
I think it’s another class thing. Mrs H likely thinks Soraya doesn’t know how to properly clean and take care of paintings and will ruin a work of art if she tries.
Mrs. Hattingh says she sold the paintings due to Mr. Hattingh’s death. But why do you think she actually sold the paintings?
It’s clear that Mrs H is struggling financially. She likely sold the paintings to make ends meet.
Do you think Rosa was speaking to Soraya at the end of Chapter Three? Or was it Soraya’s imaginations?
I’m inclined to believe it was Soraya’s imagination.
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Q – What are your first impressions of Mrs. Hattingh?
A – She seems quite entitled and condescending when she talks of “your people”Q – “I am used to culinary economy, to careful pride” – page 4. Our main character shares this with us when talking about the wealth of Mrs. Hattingh. Does this concept of “culinary economy” still resonate in modern households where budgets must be carefully managed?
A – Yes, the cost of living has increased significantly and households need to manage their spendQ – Soraya makes a comment that Mrs. Hattingh is “one of those”. Soraya mentions that her mother would have responded with a stock response. What do you make of Soraya’s lack of response?
A – It is her way of not being as deferent as her mother would have been, her own way of quiet defianceQ – Why do you think Mrs. Hattingh waited to tell Soraya that this would be a live-in position?
A – She wanted Soraya to agree before telling her this as it would normally mean a higher salary.Q – When giving the tour of the home Mrs. Hattingh becomes an entirely different person. What do you make of this switch?
A – She is proud of her home and also she wants to be acknowledged as the lady in charge, to show how much she has.Q – Soraya observes Mrs. Hattingh’s fingers. Soraya compares Mrs. Hattingh’s fingers to her mothers. She notes that most of the girls’ sneer at their madams. Is Soraya redirecting similar judgment toward her own mother instead?
A – I don’t think so. I believe thatshe wishes that she would be able to not have a manual job like her mother’s.Q – Mrs. Hattingh’s room contrasts with the rest of the house. Despite the house’s general decline, why might she preserve this particular space while allowing everything else to deteriorate?
A – It is her space and since it’s smaller, she has been able to hold on to more that matters to her there. I think it is where she feels safest and most at homeQ – Soraya notices distinct scents in her room, the house, and Mrs. Hattingh’s bedroom. How might these different smells reflect the emotional atmosphere of each space?
A – I think that her room scent is meant to emphasise her “lowly” status in the household compared to Mrs H’s being floral. The rest of the house seems to echo its neglectQ – From what dangers might Soraya need to shield herself with the bolt left by Fatima?
A – As a female living alone outside the main hoouse, general safety perhaps. Can Mrs H be fully trusted as well?Q – What do you think of Soraya’s Duties?
A – A lot of older women are very specific in their cleaning requirements and I think it is quite a large space for her to manage considering the area and issues with dust and wind etc.Q – When searching for spices, Soraya asks Mrs. Hattingh where she can find them. In their conversation, Mrs. Hattingh claims that her “days are filled with good deeds for the world”. Is she trying to convince Soraya or herself?
A – She wants Soraya to know that she is doing important things but also she wants to feel important so both.Q – “And it comes to me now that the thing about an obedient face is not that it doesn’t work but that it works too well, that eventually it becomes the face you wear all day without even trying.” – Page 21
What do you think of the above quote? Do you agree with Soraya’s observation?
A – Oh absolutely agree. When you are forced to do something even if you don’t want to, it is easy to just not care anymore and tick the boxesQ – We are introduced to the Gray Women. What do you think of them?
A – This spooked me to be honest. I had to stop reading and pick the book up the next morning. I find the nonchalance with which Soraya talks of them, interestingQ – We learn that Soraya is a storyteller who often shares these stories with the children of the Quarter. What do you make of her stories?
A – How much of the stories are made up or how many is what she learned from the Gray Women? Are they real or her imagination?Q – Beyond financial constraints, why else might Mrs. Hattingh allow her home to deteriorate?
A – I think that she thinks that cleaning and fixing things around the house is below her stationQ – What do you think of the painting in Mrs. Hattingh’s bedroom? Why do you think Soraya isn’t allowed to touch her face?
A – Why would she put up a painting after she hired Soraya, especially if she looks like her. It may be that she doesnt want to Soraya to damage it but also why is the painting talking to Soraya?Q – Mrs. Hattingh says she sold the paintings due to Mr. Hattingh’s death. But why do you think she actually sold the paintings?
A – She needed the money to run the household but also Mr H stopped her from drawing and bought those paintings which she didnt like, so this was her way of getting her own backQ – Do you think Rosa was speaking to Soraya at the end of Chapter Three? Or was it Soraya’s imaginations?
A – I’m not sure. If Soraya can talk to Gray Women, why can’t she talk to a painting. There are legends about paintings trapping peoples’ essensces/souls -
1. I honestly don’t like her or trust her. She’s very proud and racist but wants to give the appearance as relatable and approachable. I also get the feeling that she’s hiding something.
2. Yes 100%. In today’s economy I feel like every household is maintaining a budget and some semblance of meal planning of specific dishes due to the cost of certain food items.
3. I appreciate that she is willing to exercise her free will in deciding what warrants a response and what does not. She isn’t willing to compromise based on her circumstances unlike her mother. So instead of pretending she keeps quiet.
4. She wanted Soraya to already be satisfied with what was required; and make her comfortable before she made the stipulation; thus not allowing her much of a choice in declining.
5. Mrs Hattingh was trying to assert dominance and show clear status differences between Soraya and herself while she was showing her the house, even though the very act is supposed to be for the housekeeper and not Mrs Hattingh herself.
6. I don’t think she is passing judgment towards her mother but more so she’s illustrating the differences in her mother’s hands and Mrs Hattingh and then informs the reader which type of hands she prefers.
7. I think by preserving her room it allows her to keep up appearances (albeit to herself) and pretend that everything is as it should be and that her home is still pristine and beautiful as it should be.
8. The differentiated smells indicated how much love and use each room/part of the house has received. It makes sense that Mrs Hattingh’s room will smell better because it’s her most loved room.
9. Fatima worked in the house for many years so I’m inclined to believe that the bolt was probably for her safety and to protect her from unwanted male attention/intruders. She might have also needed it to safeguard her small space and belongings.
10. They’re ridiculous! It’s almost like Mrs Hattingh wants to ensure that’s she permanently occupied with work and has no free time to sit idly.
11. I think she’s trying to convince herself that she still has purpose.
12. Yes I do agree with Soraya’s observation because if one continually behaves in a certain manner you will eventually lose sight of who you actually are.
13. It’s honestly a bit creepy but I’m keen to read more about how they impact Soraya.
14. They’re scary and a little unsettling but I confirm that as a child I too was eager to hear scary ghost stories with my cousins and friends. Lol.
15. She allows it to deteriorate because housework is beneath her and she’s too proud to do it herself!
16. Is sooooo creepy! I think something will happen to her if she touched its face. I’m getting serious “get out” (the movie) vibes from this.
17. She sold it because she has no money.
18. I think she was speaking to Soraya. (I hope I’m right.lol)
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1. What are your first impressions of Mrs. Hattingh?
I honestly don’t like her, she gives me an icky feeling and I didn’t trust her straight away.
2 . Absolutely.
3. Soraya is a proud, intelligent and admirable young woman. She thinks through situations first before responding and she decides how much she is willing to give. I really like her so much, and I respect how she handles these situations because I can tell you now, I would never show the grace and patience that she shows.
4. Firstly I think it’s because she has something else to hide, and secondly I think she thought Soraya wouldn’t have taken the position so she really sold the position and then dropped the bombshell afterwards. ( Mrs H is sneaky)
5. To be honest, I think this is a true reflection of Mrs H’s nature. Her mask of kindness slipped away because she already felt as though she trapped Soraya.
6. No I definitely don’t think she is passing judgement on anyone at this moment. I think it was a simple observation.
7. I think it’s her safe space so that’s why she protects it as much as possible. I think she has basically lost so much, that keeping her room in perfect order is her holding onto a semblance of normality.
8. The different smells really just showed me what rooms were maintained and “loved” and which ones were forgotten. So the smells in Sorayas room when she first entered, reflect a forgotten and empty space. A huge void left by Fatima . Mrs H’s room had a floral smell, but even the prettiest perfume cannot mask a rotten core.
9. Fatima would have needed that bolt for safety, from all sorts of things. Unwanted visitors, to protect herself as well as her belongings. Also I think it was to shut the world out and be truly at peace, alone.
10. I got irritated with all her duties to be honest, can she not have some time to sit down and rest?!! My goodness, she was bombarded with duties that felt impossible to manage.
11. She is trying to convince herself. She seems disingenuous. The more people talk up their good deeds reflects that they do it for show and not for quiet satisfaction. If you want to help, do it with a pure heart, not just to show boat it and parade yourself to the world. (Can you tell I’m not a fan of Mrs H?!)
12. She is right. The more you pretend to be something or go along with something…. The more you slip into the role effortlessly and slowly lose yourself.
13. I was sitting alone reading downstairs and had to run to my hubby and carry on reading with him by my side in case a gray woman was in my house with me ! Hehe! But seriously, they spooked me out BUT I am fascinated with them! I can’t wait to hear more about them.
14. I feel like there are lessons within her stories. She has such a unique gift, and I think if you read between the lines of her stories…there is so much to learn. Kids love ghost stories, so I don’t blame them for wanting to hear them. I know I enjoyed Sorayas stories !!!
15. Perhaps she has lost so much, she just doesn’t care as much anymore. When one loses the important things in life (family), material items mean nothing.
16. I don’t know, but I do feel like Mrs H has a creepy attachment to the painting. The painting might be a spiritual being because why does S have such a pull towards it?!!
17. She is in huge debt perhaps? Maybe she was starting to let go of her past life ? Are her own demons coming to haunt her now?
18. Rosa was definitely speaking to her. Soraya has a connection to the other side, she is between two worlds in my opinion. She is gifted.
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At first she came across as soft spoken, maybe quiet, timid, and “frail”. But her demeanour changed almost immediately when Soraya accepted the job.
I’ve never heard of the term/ phrase “culinary economy”. But in short, definitely. Being mindful of budget while still trying to create balanced, healthy and cost effective meals, is the standard in many homes I’m sure.
Soraya seems to be constantly at war with herself. She’s fighting between the behaviour and manners taught by her mom for this type of work, and what she truly thinks and feels. She seems to be strong willed, less placating, which is what is expected of her. I think her lack of response was her “middle ground”.
She wanted Soraya to agree before adding that tidbit because she probably knew the job and pay offer would have been declined otherwise. She probably can’t afford to pay Soraya more so she handled it in this sneaky sort of way.
It’s like I mentioned in my first answer, it seems like the switch happened when Soraya accepted the job. Then her “true colours” shone through. She got what she wanted. No need to hide anymore.
I don’t think she was making judgement. I think it was more… ‘noticing’. She’s constantly describing the things she’s seeing and her experiences. I think this is one of those times.
I was wondering about this too. I figured that it’s probably where she spends most of her time or that it’s her sanctuary, her safe space.
I think the description of the smells adds to the atmosphere because the more stuffy, musky, or old the room smells, the more run down or unused it it. The more airy or fresh smells are in the more used spaces. It also helps the reader to fully immerse themselves in the story. You can in a sense, smell the room that’s being described.
I would’ve thought it was general safety, because she’s alone in an outhouse. But the fact that Fatima left it, I’m not sure.
It’s a lot for one person to do in my opinion.
I think both. She’s trying to seem like she’s important, it’s a facade. But maybe also so that she feels like her life has purpose.
This quote makes me sad honestly. That they’re expected to ‘wear this face’ and that it becomes their face permanently, and they lose their sense of self… for a job…
I don’t have an opinion on them but I am intrigued by them.
She has a dark and twisty side and obviously enjoys the macabre.
I think finances do play a big role but I think it also shows us that there’s an element of loneliness there. She talks about her son a lot, but he’s not there to help with the repairs.
It was oddly specific. I just assumed it was so that the painting doesn’t get damaged.
I took this at face value. I figured it was as she said, for financial reasons.
I’m not sure to be honest. I’ll need to read more to find out.
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My first impressions of Mrs Hattingh was that she was a harmless elderly lady that just needed help around the house, but was too proud to admit how poor she was. Maintaining a specific image/ reputation seems important to her.
Yes it does, especially in the current economy we live in where a lot of households have to be frugal with their spending.
Soraya’s deviation from the typical response given to placate employers provides insight into her defiance against these types of normalised dynamics and her strength of character.
It wasn’t advertised in the job offer, and she knows that it probably makes the job harder to accept, considering the live-in part doesn’t come with a raise. Either that or the previous women she interviewed for the position maybe declined the job once she mentioned it was a live-in position, so she held off on that information during Soraya’s interview.
It made me do a double-take. She portrayed herself as someone who is seemed like a nice old lady down on her luck, needing held because of the run down house. But during the tour it became clear she is a very exacting woman who likes things in a particular way. It was interesting to realise she put up a facade to get what she wants, and it falls depending on the situation.
I think it’s less judgement towards her mom’s fingers and more judgement directed toward the systems and class divides that ensured her mom’s fingers are in a worse state than Mrs Hattingh’s.
Her room probably provides a reflection of who she is/ a safe space or sanctuary for her, which makes her want her room to be preserved compared to the rest of the house, where she probably doesn’t spend as much of her time.
I feel like the different smells in each room are based on the emotions projected by the spirits of the women in the house that Soraya, being spiritually connected, is attuned to. The potency of each smell is dependant on how Fatima and the spirits of the other women who used to work in the house feels towards each room.
Any sort of invasion to her physical and mental privacy or safety. Much like how Mrs Hattingh’s room is her mental and physical safe space, the room that Soraya inherits from Fatima is her sanctuary in the house. The bolt allows her to ensure that the boundary between herself and the male and female employers is maintained.
I think her duties are a bit extreme. Some of them seem like normal cleaning requirements but the rest seem like a result of Mrs Hattingh’s pedantic nature.
I think it’s a combination of both. She’s both bragging about her good deeds to inform and convince Soraya of how she’s a good person, and she’s trying to assert the “good person” aspect of her identity onto herself by stating it with so much conviction.
I thought it was such a powerful quote, and it had me thinking about the power dynamics that exist between employers and their employees. It also made me consider if this quote about obedience was foreshadowing for the rest of the story in some way.
I thought their appearance was unexpected (I wasn’t expecting the introduction of the supernatural to this story) but that they were a cool way to represent the women who were exploited during colonial South Africa and the legacy that stories of their abuse leave behind in subsequent generations of women.
I thought her storytelling was actually pretty cool! Her stories were atmospheric and were great folktales. I’m a little disappointed her mom/ society caused her to suppress her storytelling kids in favour of practicality and reality.
It could be due to a lack of actual care for the home. She probably doesn’t really care for maintaining the home beyond surface-level, aesthetic cleaning that gives the illusion of a well maintained home (in case any one of her friends were to come over).
I think she sold them because they remind her of her husband. He didn’t sound like a great man, and seeing the paintings probably reminds her of how she had to trade in her love for painting for staring at paintings that HE would buy. So by getting rid of the paintings her husband bought, she’s purging that controlling aspect and memory of her husband from her life.
Honestly, I wasn’t sure at the end of this chapter whether she was hallucinating or if this was a genuine spiritual manifestation of Rosa that was communicating to Soraya as a sort of warning.
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