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The lost art of convalescence

Convalescence is the gradual return to health after illness or injury, a gentle process of recovery. But whereas the heroines of 18th-century novels were apt to read and rest while sipping broth in a lace nightdress, nowadays we’re expected to be back at work as soon as the acute phase of an illness has passed.

Words by Lizzie Enfield

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About the author

Colour head and shoulders photograph of writer Lizzie Enfield

Lizzie Enfield

Lizzie Enfield is a journalist and regular contributor to national newspapers, magazines and radio. She has written five novels, and had her short stories broadcast on BBC Radio 4.