How do I manage to miss the two classes where we talk about my favorite books of the semester? First I was out for Lying, now I miss Never Let Me Go. Definitely a dissapointment that I didn't get to hear what everyone had to say about the novel, but it's been interesting reading your posts.
I have to say that Maryellen hit on exactly what I was thinking while reading the book. It was completely enjoyable until that last part with Kathy, Tommy, Madame and the teacher. For some reason I found myself whole heartedly believing the premise of the novel, only until it was fully explained. Then I just seemed to...lose it. I'm not sure if I was expecting something more and was dissapointed with the final reveal. I know that a part of me knew what to expect. It was being hinted at so much during the novel that I couldn't help but not be surprised when the reason for the children was finally revealed. But I think there was another part of me that was hoping maybe there was more to the story.
Like Maryellen, I found it just a little unbelievable that such a controversial practice could be created so quickly without any real discussion. I was really heartbroken when I started losing belief in the novel. I really wanted to like it, but this all seemed like such a letdown. But then I got to thinking - I'm able to read sci fi and fantasy and completely suspend my disbelief there, why can't I do it here? Is it because this story is based so much more in reality?
Then I started being more honest with myself. While reading the ending I kept wondering to myself - if these kids are only being raised as organ donors, why bother giving them a life at all? That thought alone made me really uncomfortable. I never imagined I could think that way about someone's life. But I'm supposing that's exactly what Ishiguro wanted. And I applaud him for doing so. It's really hard to make me uncomfortable. So I have to wonder - was I really disappointed with the ending? Or was I so uncomfortable that I just told myself I was disappointed?
Comments (1)
I think the letdown near the end of Never Let Me Go comes from having the situation explained, rather than simply experienced. It's what's commonly referred to in science fiction circles as an "infodump." This tends to interrupt the story, as the reader is now taking in an explanation rather than just living the story, and the characters are also pausing in their lives to simply take in the information and consider it. As Ishiguro does it it's simply part of the plot, but it is still an awkward pause in the action.
Posted by Lucy | December 10, 2007 2:55 AM
Posted on December 10, 2007 02:55