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A review by pran
The Story of a New Name by Elena Ferrante
dark
emotional
reflective
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? It's complicated
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
5.0
I have been really excited to read this book ever since I finished My Brilliant Friend.
I was not disappointed, and I think I enjoyed this even more than its prequel.
Ferrante's writing is so immersive and detailed, without being boring or pretentious. I liked Lena's reflections on her friendship with Lila as she becomes more mature.
Of course there are many elements of their relationship which are dysfunctional but it is a product of the environment it was formed in, and I do not believe it is our job as readers to judge the actions and decisions of characters. The economic and socio-cultural background of the novel explains, I believe, the tension between jealousy and love in their relationship.
I see Lena and Lila's friendship as more of a sister-like bond, which places the love-hate aspect of it into context.
It may be easy to say "Why are they even friends?", but to say that none of us have asked ourselves these questions of some of our own, most valued relationships would be a lie.
Ferrante's textured and honest portrayal of a lifelong (and imperfect) friendship will certainly stay with me.
I was not disappointed, and I think I enjoyed this even more than its prequel.
Ferrante's writing is so immersive and detailed, without being boring or pretentious. I liked Lena's reflections on her friendship with Lila as she becomes more mature.
Of course there are many elements of their relationship which are dysfunctional but it is a product of the environment it was formed in, and I do not believe it is our job as readers to judge the actions and decisions of characters. The economic and socio-cultural background of the novel explains, I believe, the tension between jealousy and love in their relationship.
I see Lena and Lila's friendship as more of a sister-like bond, which places the love-hate aspect of it into context.
It may be easy to say "Why are they even friends?", but to say that none of us have asked ourselves these questions of some of our own, most valued relationships would be a lie.
Ferrante's textured and honest portrayal of a lifelong (and imperfect) friendship will certainly stay with me.
Content Warnings
Moderate: Domestic abuse