In this article we will review The Buried Giant by Kazuo Ishiguro.
Book Plot
“The Buried Giant” by Kazuo Ishiguro is a fantasy novel set in post-Arthurian Britain. The story revolves around an elderly Briton couple, Axl and Beatrice, who embark on a journey to find their son. However, they face a challenge: a mysterious mist blankets the land, causing memory loss. As they travel, they grapple with issues of memory, aging, love, loss, and death. The novel weaves a melancholic exploration of these themes, revealing the emotional power of love and war in a world where remembering becomes elusive.
The Buried Giant Rating : 3,57
Also book has 384 pages
The Buried Giant Review
Oh wow, this book really stirred up some controversy among fans of Ishiguro! Before diving into this novel, trust me when I say it’s unlike anything he’s done before. If you’re not open to change, you might want to pass on this one. Don’t expect it to be like “The Remains of the Day” or “Never Let Me Go.” This book isn’t even set in our world or time period. At its core, “The Buried Giant” is essentially a fantasy tale.
But before you give up on it, rest assured that Ishiguro’s trademark writing style and skill are still present in this book. If all fantasy books were written like this, I wouldn’t struggle with the genre so much. Beneath the fantasy elements, there are deep philosophical themes, literary references, discussions on death and morality, and a heart-wrenching conclusion that ties everything together. I admire authors who step out of their comfort zones, and Ishiguro certainly took a leap here, even by his own standards. I was a fan of his work before, but now I truly appreciate his talent.
The story starts in a world where a mysterious event called “the mist” causes people to forget most of their past. Beatrice and Axl, an elderly couple, set out on a journey to reunite with their son in another village. Along the way, they encounter interesting characters, including one from Arthurian legends, and a mysterious boatman who might be more than he seems. As they remember more and learn about “the mist”, the story unfolds before the reader.
Not a fan of fantasy? Don’t worry. The creatures and elements in this book are just tools to explore themes of love, loss, loyalty, and the cycle of war and hatred. Ishiguro delves into questions of love, eternity, memory, and the impact of our past on our present. With expert storytelling, Ishiguro uses fantasy to convey deeper messages, rather than making it the focal point.
If you enjoy thought-provoking fables, give this book a chance. If you appreciate moving endings, give this book a chance. If you admire authors who take risks and push boundaries, give this book a chance.
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