Piranesi by Susanna Clark
Piranesi is a magnetic read. Every twist and turn is interesting and exciting. I highly recommend this book! Even after I put it down I found myself discussing it with anyone who would listen. Themes of innocence and loneliness are sprinkled throughout the book and create such a profound feeling. The style of writing as well, is practically poetry, but with an easy flow to it.
Piranesi by Susanna Clarke is about a man living inside, what he calls, the House, but it’s not really what we would consider a house. Yes, there’s halls…but that’s all there is. It’s a never-ending labyrinth of ornate halls with intricate statues covering every inch. Our protagonist, or Piranesi as his companion refers to him, can’t recall how he got there or anything about his past. His companion tasks him with mapping out the entirety of the House and he is happy to oblige, until he comes across torn pages from a journal in one of the vestibules. Then the mysteries surrounding the House and his companion begin to unravel.
Susanna Clarke, who I was not aware of before hearing about this book, is known for her literary prowess. Her most famous work, and debut novel, is Jonathan Strange & Mr. Norrell which was made into a Netflix show in 2015 and first published in 2004! So, it took her quite a bit of time to eventually complete Piranesi this year.
I was pleasantly surprised at how much I enjoyed this book. The genre I tend to stick with the most is medieval fantasy, but after hearing a YouTuber recommend Piranesi I figured I’d give it a try. It’s still in the fantasy genre after all, only there’s no swords (I did kind of miss the swords a lil bit. Only a little though.).
Anyway, I’m so glad I gave Piranesi a read! When I tell you everyone around me is sick of hearing about this book, I’m not joking. If you have time this holiday weekend go give it a read! It’s only about 200 pages, which is cake.
