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joe_hh98's review against another edition
4.0
Arthur Golden’s polarising novel about twentieth century Geisha culture is a truly fascinating read, that is somewhat clouded by the controversy surrounding its writing.
‘Memoirs of a Geisha’ is an insightful and compelling depiction of the life of a Geisha around the time of World War Two. The story drew me in from the offset due to its arresting narrative and illustrative language choices. It begins as a strikingly beautiful portrayal of a world and culture that I know extraordinarily little about. The novel reads so poetically throughout; even as the plot dwindles in the latter half. Sayuri is not only an enthralling narrator, but a sharply witty one too.
Unfortunately, one does have to question the accuracy of the novel. Written by a white American Arthur Golden, the story is in many ways woven with elements of sexism and orientalism, which is wholly problematic and taints its believability. As well as this, I did begin to lose interest in the story, as I went on. Whilst its melodrama is perhaps charming at the start, this novelty is not strong enough to carry it through.
Nonetheless, I did truly enjoy this book. I just wonder how much stronger it could have been, had it been written by an actual Geisha.
‘Memoirs of a Geisha’ is an insightful and compelling depiction of the life of a Geisha around the time of World War Two. The story drew me in from the offset due to its arresting narrative and illustrative language choices. It begins as a strikingly beautiful portrayal of a world and culture that I know extraordinarily little about. The novel reads so poetically throughout; even as the plot dwindles in the latter half. Sayuri is not only an enthralling narrator, but a sharply witty one too.
Unfortunately, one does have to question the accuracy of the novel. Written by a white American Arthur Golden, the story is in many ways woven with elements of sexism and orientalism, which is wholly problematic and taints its believability. As well as this, I did begin to lose interest in the story, as I went on. Whilst its melodrama is perhaps charming at the start, this novelty is not strong enough to carry it through.
Nonetheless, I did truly enjoy this book. I just wonder how much stronger it could have been, had it been written by an actual Geisha.
azure_oblivion's review against another edition
5.0
One of the most beautiful books I've ever read. I loved it from start to finish.
vievit's review against another edition
adventurous
dark
emotional
hopeful
informative
inspiring
reflective
sad
tense
medium-paced
5.0
davidcortesog93's review against another edition
sad
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? It's complicated
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
4.25
jjbbq's review against another edition
reflective
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? No
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? No
3.0
I walked away more confused than when I started. What’s a Geisha?
Good fun social maneuvering, but I do find it weird how o think of all this written by an American man. The first weeboo?
If I was in charge, pumpkin would have landed the chairman and Sayuri would have ended up in a shame-filled partnership with Nobu. That’s what I call 4 stars.
Good fun social maneuvering, but I do find it weird how o think of all this written by an American man. The first weeboo?
lostinfrance's review against another edition
5.0
I know nothing of Asian culture...nor am I a huge historical fiction fan. This book just kept appearing in my life and I kept ignoring it....finally a copy appeared in my apartment without my consent. And I read it. And I loved it. The main character is someone you cann't help falling for....and then....well....I can't say more...but the read is worth the end. :)
annahowell's review against another edition
emotional
reflective
sad
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? No
5.0
andreacpowers's review against another edition
Closed it. Couldn't finish it because of FORESHADOWING.