Caro Claire Burke’s first novel, “Yesteryear,” introduces a contemporary tradwife influencer who showcases her idyllic farm life to 8 million followers. However, her life takes a dramatic turn when she finds herself transported back to the 1800s, facing the harsh realities of a life without modern amenities like running water and electricity.
The term “tradwife” refers to a specific group of influencers on social media platforms like TikTok and Instagram who embrace the traditional homemaker role, emphasizing family and a conventional lifestyle.
Burke discussed how the concept of a woman prioritizing her family and marriage, embodying a submissive role, has captured the attention of society and politics. This trend has led to the rise of accounts mirroring this ideal, gaining significant popularity in the current cultural landscape.
The novel’s protagonist, Natalie Heller Mills, embodies the tradwife trend, offering a complex exploration of fame, tradition, and femininity. Burke, an American author, delved into the unexpected character of her tradwife protagonist during a conversation with Mattea Roach, hinting at a possible film adaptation featuring Anne Hathaway.
Regarding the discourse surrounding tradwives, Burke acknowledged the conflicting perspectives, noting the intersection of gender studies and womanhood. She highlighted the misconception that any choice made by a woman is inherently feminist and discussed the financial opportunities available to influencers adopting the tradwife persona.
Describing Natalie Heller Mills, Burke characterized her as ambitious, intelligent, but also bigoted and rigid in her moral beliefs, lacking emotional intelligence and struggling with self-awareness.
Burke credited Anne Hathaway for her role in shaping Natalie’s character, emphasizing the collaborative process of refining the novel’s themes and character development. Hathaway’s insights and vision contributed to molding Natalie’s persona and the overall narrative of the book.
In the acknowledgments, Burke revealed that she envisioned her future daughter reading the book, emphasizing the intergenerational transmission of womanhood lessons portrayed in the story. She expressed comfort in the idea of future generations of women continuing the legacy and finding solace in the collective effort to navigate societal challenges.
Overall, “Yesteryear” offers a thought-provoking exploration of traditional roles, fame, and generational connections, resonating with contemporary discussions on gender, culture, and identity.