In everyday language, this statement speaks about the speaker's grandmother who worked as a nursery maid in large households. The term "nursery maid" refers to someone specifically employed to care for children and their rooms within wealthy families’ homes. However, it’s noted that many other workers were not so fortunate; they held positions known as maids of all work, which entailed undertaking multiple tasks without the specialization associated with a nursery maid.
The deeper meaning of this quote lies in shedding light on historical social structures and class divisions within society. The speaker draws attention to the reality that many domestic workers did not enjoy specialized roles like her grandmother but rather were burdened by the demands of all-around housekeeping duties. This insight paints a vivid picture of the hardships faced by lower-class individuals during an era when working conditions for these servants were often harsh and undifferentiated in terms of responsibilities. It highlights the disparity between those who had specific job titles within grand households and the majority who bore the brunt of general household labor.
Sarah Waters is a renowned British author celebrated for her historical fiction, particularly set in Victorian and Edwardian periods. Her works are known for their intricate narratives and vivid portrayals of social life from a feminine perspective. The quote encapsulates a slice of societal observation that runs through much of her writing: an exploration into the lives of women and marginalized groups during times when their roles were narrowly defined by class and gender constraints.
