It was a slow start for me with this novel, mostly because the rhythm was uneven. This could be the result of the translation from Italian to English, or it may simply reflect the unique cadence of the author’s writing style. Regardless, I was eventually able to adjust and found myself looking forward to any opportunity to pick up the threads of Elena and Lila’s coming of age story.
But now that I’ve finished, it’s difficult to give a review of the book…just yet. Though I followed the story with great interest and curiosity and grew fond of the main characters, when reaching the final page I was not left with the longed for feeling of satisfaction that comes with closing a book at reading’s end. And the reason lies in the fact that the story has not yet concluded. My Brilliant Friend is but the first installment of a lifelong saga of friendship.
Friendships are complex relationships, especially the friendships of our youth. And Elena Ferrante skillfully illustrates the fine line separating generosity, love, loyalty and admiration, with the destructive powers of doubt and envy, leading even at times to fleeting moments of hatred. In truth, these forces are likely at battle in most of our relationships, though at varying degrees. And it’s refreshing to watch these passionate feelings and deeds playing out between the two young and flawed protagonists, especially as their lives become more divergent.
I’m hopeful this honest portrayal will continue as I move on to book two of The Neapolitan Novels, The Story of a New Name. And I must mention one added bonus from reading My Brilliant Friend. It has opened another channel for reflection on my own brilliant friends, of which I’m blessed with an abundance, and whom I truly admire and try never to take for granted.
As I read…and re-read your comments to your review of this book, I feel blessed to also enjoy such deep and lasting friendships with so many “brilliant friends”. As I have grown…older and hopefully wiser…I continue to learn from each of my friends…admire their uniqueness and accept our differences and always love them for who they are as we continue to enjoy life’s journey together. I always appreciate their honesty with me…and know they love me as I love them. As my life has changed…I am blessed to have stayed in touch with SO many friends over the years…have made new ones…and reconnected with some that have not been in my life for years. Brilliant Friends is an interesting title…I find this in each of my friends…I am feeling blessed and fortunate to be influenced by such amazing friends!
And I’m thinking that as Elena and Lila grow older, as their friendship matures, they will also arrive at the same place we are now after decades of friendship. I think that’s one of the reasons I’m eager to keep reading this saga.
How fortunate we are to be blessed by friendships that span decades. What a wonderful reminder of the care and nourishment our relationships require.
Thank you for the insight, Loretta, and for being a “brilliant friend.”
You are so right, Barb! Friendships are blessings. Especially those that have endured since childhood like ours. And that’s probably why I’m drawn to coming of age stories. But also because my life has been deeply enriched by my own brilliant friends.
I know I am late replying but without my friends & their dearness toward me, my days
would be forever long. Friendship is a lovely thought each & every day. It doesn’t matter if
they are physically with me or not, those memories are mine to keep in my heart.
What a lovely sentiment, Greta. Thanks for sharing.