The Song of Achilles is written by the praised author Madeline Miller. This challenging read and classic is a mixture of young adult, romance, historical fiction, and poetry. The main theme of The Song of Achilles is mainly about love with some parts of revenge and legacy.
The whole book is from the point of view of Patroclus. We watch as he grows from an adolescent boy into a brave warrior. He meets Achilles as they grow into young men. Then together they get sent off to the Trojan war which lasts a decade. Achilles always following the orders of his sea nymph of a mom Thetis. As he attempts to fulfill his legacy of being one of the greatest greek warriors of all time.
This read could be challenging for some, but each word is incredibly thought out. It was a memorable adventure, and entertaining. The author made each sentence a little works of poetry. Which helps capture the scenes and gives detailed imagery. I enjoyed how she orchestrated it. The writing in the book ending was more abstract, but it helped tie it all together. Since it's about greek mythology there are numerous accounts of the same story. In her version she sums up the boy's teenage years rapidly then makes sure to illustrate every bit of the Trojan war. The book made me ponder on issues like Women of the past and how they were treated. It also made me relate to the issue of legacy, being told of what you are going to be and fulfilling it. It made me wonder about my intentions with life, as short as it is. What will I do with it and myself?
It gives us a glimpse of life at the time, with the fragile social pyramid. The treatment of people of class and women of the enemy. fulfilling your legacy that was written before your birth. I suggest reading other reads similar to this one and by the author too. Connecting us to the real world and how it has molded us.
Comments