Inspiration: Super Sad True Love Story
As I mentioned in my last post, I've decided to start adding some things that inspire me, and that might inspire others, to this blog.
I recently finished Super Sad True Love Story by Gary Shteyngart.
And it was brilliant. Granted, my enjoying this book was probably something the stupidest algorithm could have figured out:
- The main character is exactly the same age as me
- Lots of warnings about social media and obsession with screens
- Explosions and futuristic political situation
Even so, the most interesting character in this book is the antagonist, Eunice Park. Her situation and her attitude to life perfectly contrast with Lenny's, and I loved how two people who are needy in their way find each other, even if (and they both know it) they aren't right for each other.
The writer creates two compelling characters and throws them together. Using diaries and first-hand accounts is a brave way of telling the story, but also allows the reader to know more than either character. This is a good technique that I should think about using at some point - how do I build tension in the reader?
