Friday, November 5, 2021

Review of The Collector by John Fowles

This review was written by Eugene Kernes

Book can be found in:
Genre = Novel
Intriguing Connections = Some Type of Romance

Short Description

Elaborate Description

Overview:

Frederick is a lonely entomologist who had recently acquired money.  Although generally well off in his isolation, Miranda catches his thoughts.  Initially innocent, but grow into an obsessive love.  Frederick believes that the only way Miranda can learn to love him, is by forcing her to spend time with him.  That over time, the feelings will be reciprocated.  Because of the obsession, Frederick kidnaps Miranda.  The account of the situation is perceived from both perspectives.  Facilitating psychoanalysis as the book is written from the thoughts of both individuals.  Using philosophy on a vast array of diverse topics to question many social values.  Each character, in their own way, tries to teach morality but their assumptions about the meaning and intent of the other causes misunderstanding.  Assumptions about what it means to love, and be loved.


Problems?

The book has some difficult writing due to poor flow.  Not a very smooth read, as the transitions sometimes prevent an understanding of the events.  Reading about the story from each perspective allows for a more immersive story, as the values of each character are highlighted by what they choose to share, or not share.


Questions to Consider while Reading the Book

•What is the raison d’etre of the book?  For what purpose did the author write the book?
•Who is Frederick?
•How does Frederick get his money?
•Who is Miranda?
•Why does Frederick love Miranda?
•Why does Frederick kidnap Miranda?
•What does Miranda come to think of Frederick?

Book Details
Edition ISBN:  9780316290234
Pages to read:   303
Publication:     1997
1st Edition:      1963
Format:            Paperback

Ratings out of 5:
Readability    4
Content          3
Overall           4