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A review by beriboo
Prophet Song by Paul Lynch
3.0
Review: Prophet Song by Paul Lynch
Rating: ★★★☆☆
Prophet Song by Paul Lynch is a tough one for me to rate. On one hand, I didn't enjoy reading it, yet I can't seem to stop thinking about it. This book left me feeling torn between recognising a subtle intelligence and wondering if we're giving the author too much credit.
Let's start with the writing style. I found it downright awful. The modern trend of not using punctuation feels like the literary world's version of modern art—often frustrating and pretentious. The long, neverending paragraphs were horrendous, making the text feel like an uphill battle. However, switching to the audiobook was a game-changer. The narration brought clarity and flow, making me wonder if the narrator had special notes from the author on how to present it.
The main character, unfortunately, didn't win me over. She's incredibly annoying and, despite being portrayed as intelligent, seems utterly incapable of making decisions. Her lack of survival instincts had me internally screaming "GET OUT, WOMAN!" numerous times. Yet, this might be where Lynch's subtlety shines. We're all demanding she escapes, but where to? This reflects the harsh reality faced by displaced people and refugees, highlighting our often limited empathy and understanding of their plight.
Setting the story in Ireland, rather than a more typically "othered" location, was a bold and smart choice. It challenges readers to confront their biases and consider global issues from a more personal perspective. This aspect of the book is commendable and thought-provoking.
Despite my struggles with Prophet Song, it's a book that sticks with you, prompting reflection long after you've finished it. While I can't say I enjoyed it, I do appreciate its impact and the conversations it sparks. If you can push through the challenging writing style, there's a depth to this book that makes it worth considering.
Rating: ★★★☆☆
Prophet Song by Paul Lynch is a tough one for me to rate. On one hand, I didn't enjoy reading it, yet I can't seem to stop thinking about it. This book left me feeling torn between recognising a subtle intelligence and wondering if we're giving the author too much credit.
Let's start with the writing style. I found it downright awful. The modern trend of not using punctuation feels like the literary world's version of modern art—often frustrating and pretentious. The long, neverending paragraphs were horrendous, making the text feel like an uphill battle. However, switching to the audiobook was a game-changer. The narration brought clarity and flow, making me wonder if the narrator had special notes from the author on how to present it.
The main character, unfortunately, didn't win me over. She's incredibly annoying and, despite being portrayed as intelligent, seems utterly incapable of making decisions. Her lack of survival instincts had me internally screaming "GET OUT, WOMAN!" numerous times. Yet, this might be where Lynch's subtlety shines. We're all demanding she escapes, but where to? This reflects the harsh reality faced by displaced people and refugees, highlighting our often limited empathy and understanding of their plight.
Setting the story in Ireland, rather than a more typically "othered" location, was a bold and smart choice. It challenges readers to confront their biases and consider global issues from a more personal perspective. This aspect of the book is commendable and thought-provoking.
Despite my struggles with Prophet Song, it's a book that sticks with you, prompting reflection long after you've finished it. While I can't say I enjoyed it, I do appreciate its impact and the conversations it sparks. If you can push through the challenging writing style, there's a depth to this book that makes it worth considering.