The Lover by Marguerite Duras ~ Book Review

I was hesitant to read this book because I’m not much of a romance reader. But, as it turns out, this book isn’t much of a romance. What it is is an elegantly written work of art.

I found this book to be a study in contradictions. At times provoking vivid imagery, at other times sparse and simplistic, the prose reads like poetry, simultaneously emotional and detached. The style tends towards the abstract, but sharpens at times to be cuttingly exact. There are passages that are shockingly beautiful and insightful.

Strange, lonely, angry, but definitely worth the time it took to absorb this short read. A must for writers wishing to expose themselves to a broader experience. 5 stars.