A review by spootilious
Lud-in-the-Mist by Hope Mirrlees

adventurous inspiring lighthearted mysterious reflective medium-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? A mix
• Strong character development? Yes
• Loveable characters? Yes
• Diverse cast of characters? No
• Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated

4.5

 

Read: April 21, 2023
 Title: Lud-in-the-Mist
 Author: Hope Mirrlees
 Genre: Fantasy, Fiction, Classics
 Rating: 4.5/5
 Review: 

There is so much I’d like to say about this book but simply cannot find the words. It saddens me that this is not very well known here in the U.S…. Though I suppose with the aged vocabulary and the difference in culture it isn’t a surprise. Regardless I have to say that this book has made it to my top 10 of best books I’ve ever read. 

Mirrlees writing is poetic yet simple (considering it was written almost 100 years ago). It is beautiful and has aged well. The entirety of the novel is poetry at its finest. Granted, going into the novel I had no idea what it was about, and even having finished it it’s difficult to say, but the journey was a beautiful and adventurous one. 

There are so many themes to this book that makes it stand out… Xenophobia, Mortality and the fear of mortality, the illusion of government and law, paternal affection, and so much more. 

The characters were all unique and lovable (even the ‘villains’), the setting was whimsical and comforting… This book had everything and more. 

I can’t describe it properly or provide more praise. My simple suggestion is to read it. You will either love or hate it and both are acceptable. Regardless, this book is going on my shelf of fame. 
 
 Quotes: 

“Pride and resentment are not indigenous to the human heart; and perhaps it is due to the gardener's innate love of the exotic that we take such pains to make them thrive.” 

“The law plays fast and loose with reality- and no one really believes it.” 

“You should regard each meeting with a friend as a sitting he is unwittingly giving you for a portrait — a portrait that, probably, when you or he die, will still be unfinished.”