Edit 15/8/2014 Watched the film. Freddy! Young Julian Sands! Pond scene! So much fun.

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A light Edwardian comedy with an ordinary romantic situation, but Forster makes even romance tolerable with his fun over the top characters and satirical jabs at the conventions of the stuffy society. His writing is also polished and clear as always. I don't completely approve Forster's idea of the Dark Army, though (makes me question if he was serious about that).

The first part that takes place in Italy was (according to Forster's afterword) abandoned for a while, which might explain why the second part isn't nearly as entertaining. Although I loved the scene where George and Freddy go swimming with the vicar, it was hilarious! From the first part my favorite is probably the one where Lucy rebels by buying pictures of nude art. Raunchy.

Sadly, my favorite quote has to be put into spoiler tags.

Spoiler

"When we were only acquaintances, you let me be myself, but now you're always protecting me...I won't be protected. I will choose for myself what is ladylike and right. To shield me is an insult. Can't I be trusted to face the truth but I must get it second-hand through you? ...you wrap yourself up in art and books and music, and would try to wrap up me. I won't be stifled, not by the most glorious music, for people are more glorious, and you hide them from me. That's why I break off my engagement."

Ugh, now I want to see the Merchant Ivory film. Possibly with something sparkly in my hand...?