Caro Claire Burke’s first book, “Yesteryear,” follows the story of a contemporary traditional wife influencer who showcases her idyllic farm life to 8 million followers. However, her life takes a dramatic turn when she suddenly finds herself transported back to the 1800s, where she must navigate a world without modern amenities like running water and electricity.
The term “tradwife” refers to a specific group of influencers active on platforms like TikTok and Instagram, embodying the traditional wife role by focusing on homemaking and embracing a traditional lifestyle. Burke discussed the rise of this trend, noting how the ideal of a woman prioritizing family and marriage has gained prominence in today’s culture and politics.
Natalie Heller Mills, the protagonist of “Yesteryear,” epitomizes this tradwife trend, offering a complex exploration of fame, tradition, and femininity. Burke, an American author, delved into the character of Natalie, highlighting her ambitious yet flawed nature, and discussed the upcoming film adaptation featuring Anne Hathaway.
The term “tradwife” can evoke mixed reactions, seen as derogatory by some while others view it through a feminist lens. Burke explained that the discourse surrounding tradwives intersects with gender studies and womanhood, with debates on whether traditional roles can be empowering or limiting for women. She emphasized the financial empowerment that some tradwives gain through monetizing their lifestyle choices online.
In crafting the character of Natalie, Burke described her as a multifaceted individual with high ambitions but lacking emotional intelligence. The acknowledgments of the book thanked Anne Hathaway for her role in bringing Natalie to life, highlighting the collaborative process of refining the character and themes of the story.
Burke also revealed that she wrote the ending of the book with a future daughter in mind, emphasizing the intergenerational transmission of lessons on womanhood. By exploring themes of legacy and female empowerment, Burke aimed to offer a narrative that reflects on the cyclical nature of gender roles and the resilience of women through generations.
