The novel left me acutely aware of the ethereal quality of life, whether from the initial lack of religiosity in Lila’s childhood, or from the absence of true insight from the preacher. It was surprising how the scarcity in both situations actually strengthened this feeling for me. Perhaps that is just the world Robinson intended to create with her poetic imagination.
The contrast between the young, apathetic, fiercely unrefined Lila, and the old, devout, politically correct Reverend John Ames, is remarkable. His love for her was unparalleled; and it was beautiful to follow her journey toward him as well. It was in Lila’s simplicity that the most profound insight was revealed in this book. I might add that the disjointed flow of her thoughts was somewhat disorienting at times, but was something that I eventually became accustomed to as the story progressed.
I also enjoyed the parallels between the Reverend and his flock, and Doane and his gaggle. I admired sweet Doll and her unconditional love for Lila, contrasted with her incensed resentment toward most others; what compelling characters!
Marilynne Robinson is a talented writer; having the capacity to not only bring great dimension to her stories, but to also engage the reader in deep reflection and critical thinking.
The novel stands beautifully alone; however, having enjoyed it so much, I may just have to pick up Gilead to see what lies ahead for Ms. Lila Ames.
Read 2/12/15
The contrast between the young, apathetic, fiercely unrefined Lila, and the old, devout, politically correct Reverend John Ames, is remarkable. His love for her was unparalleled; and it was beautiful to follow her journey toward him as well. It was in Lila’s simplicity that the most profound insight was revealed in this book. I might add that the disjointed flow of her thoughts was somewhat disorienting at times, but was something that I eventually became accustomed to as the story progressed.
I also enjoyed the parallels between the Reverend and his flock, and Doane and his gaggle. I admired sweet Doll and her unconditional love for Lila, contrasted with her incensed resentment toward most others; what compelling characters!
Marilynne Robinson is a talented writer; having the capacity to not only bring great dimension to her stories, but to also engage the reader in deep reflection and critical thinking.
The novel stands beautifully alone; however, having enjoyed it so much, I may just have to pick up Gilead to see what lies ahead for Ms. Lila Ames.
Read 2/12/15
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