What Maisie Knew

The narrative centers on young Maisie, whose life is disrupted by her parents' tumultuous divorce and shared custody arrangement. As she navigates the emotional fallout of her parents' selfishness and immaturity, Maisie grows into a perceptive and resilient young woman. The story critiques the moral decay of society, illustrating how children's well-being suffers amid adult irresponsibility. This poignant exploration of familial neglect remains one of Henry James's most celebrated works, highlighting the tragic impact of parental indifference on a child's development.