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A review by sueread2030
The Green Mile by Stephen King
challenging
dark
emotional
mysterious
reflective
sad
tense
slow-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? No
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
5.0
The 100XXXXX times reading this masterpiece after 10XXXX watching the movie
If someone asked me what is the PERFECT book, The Green Mile by Stephen King it would be.
Don't care what anyone says.
I always roll my eyes when King is referred to as "King of Horror" because, eventhough he does write gruesome horrors, his psychological thrillers are way wayyyyyyy more superb.
The Green Mile is perfect not just for its masterful storytelling, complex character building, intense plot, and unique paranormal aspect but also because of the realistic symbolism of the characters.
From the Gentle Giant, John Coffey, to the vulnerable mouse, Mr Jingles, The Green Mile is a literary powerful tool that invites us to ponder deeper philosophical questions. It challenges us to consider the nature of justice, the possibility of miracles, and the complexities of the human soul.
John Coffey, with his miraculous healing abilities, stands as a Christ-like figure, his initials 'J.C.' echoing Jesus Christ. Coffey's wrongful conviction and the supernatural elements surrounding his character invite reflections on themes of sacrifice and salvation. His ability to absorb others' sufferings, to heal, and to empathize with the pain of the world, positions him as a beacon of light in the dark confines of the prison. The character of Coffey transforms the Green Mile into a space where miracles can occur, suggesting that even in the darkest corners of human existence, there is a possibility for redemption and goodness.
He also represents the prejudice of human beings towards the different and what they cannot control. People see Coffey and immediately associate him with violence because of his size, color, and slow speech. He is not like them therefore he is a threat and a definite transgressor.
the story has many side villains, however, its two main antagonists, William "Wild Bill" Wharton and Percy Wetmore embody chaos and malevolence, a stark contrast to Coffey's character. Wharton's presence in the story amplifies the definite presence of evil. His actions, demeanor, and race reflect the darker aspects of humanity, serving as a reminder of the potential for evil that exists alongside the potential for good.
Just as bad, is Percy. He is an authority figure yet capable of the same evils as Wild Bill. The turn of events towards the end and how these two got what they deserved was both satisfying and shocking.
Mr. Jingles, the mouse transcending its small existence by becoming part of the lives of the death row inmates, symbolizes endurance and the significance of life in all forms. The mouse's relationship with Eduard Delacroix adds a layer of innocence and companionship, contrasting sharply with the harsh environment of the prison. It became the representation of joy even during the darkest hours.
King's Magical Realism style in the Green Mile is a testament of his greatness.
If someone asked me what is the PERFECT book, The Green Mile by Stephen King it would be.
Don't care what anyone says.
I always roll my eyes when King is referred to as "King of Horror" because, eventhough he does write gruesome horrors, his psychological thrillers are way wayyyyyyy more superb.
The Green Mile is perfect not just for its masterful storytelling, complex character building, intense plot, and unique paranormal aspect but also because of the realistic symbolism of the characters.
From the Gentle Giant, John Coffey, to the vulnerable mouse, Mr Jingles, The Green Mile is a literary powerful tool that invites us to ponder deeper philosophical questions. It challenges us to consider the nature of justice, the possibility of miracles, and the complexities of the human soul.
John Coffey, with his miraculous healing abilities, stands as a Christ-like figure, his initials 'J.C.' echoing Jesus Christ. Coffey's wrongful conviction and the supernatural elements surrounding his character invite reflections on themes of sacrifice and salvation. His ability to absorb others' sufferings, to heal, and to empathize with the pain of the world, positions him as a beacon of light in the dark confines of the prison. The character of Coffey transforms the Green Mile into a space where miracles can occur, suggesting that even in the darkest corners of human existence, there is a possibility for redemption and goodness.
He also represents the prejudice of human beings towards the different and what they cannot control. People see Coffey and immediately associate him with violence because of his size, color, and slow speech. He is not like them therefore he is a threat and a definite transgressor.
the story has many side villains, however, its two main antagonists, William "Wild Bill" Wharton and Percy Wetmore embody chaos and malevolence, a stark contrast to Coffey's character. Wharton's presence in the story amplifies the definite presence of evil. His actions, demeanor, and race reflect the darker aspects of humanity, serving as a reminder of the potential for evil that exists alongside the potential for good.
Just as bad, is Percy. He is an authority figure yet capable of the same evils as Wild Bill. The turn of events towards the end and how these two got what they deserved was both satisfying and shocking.
Mr. Jingles, the mouse transcending its small existence by becoming part of the lives of the death row inmates, symbolizes endurance and the significance of life in all forms. The mouse's relationship with Eduard Delacroix adds a layer of innocence and companionship, contrasting sharply with the harsh environment of the prison. It became the representation of joy even during the darkest hours.
King's Magical Realism style in the Green Mile is a testament of his greatness.