Will Gillettes's Blog

Would you accept a stranger’s invitation to a “haunted house”? Well, in Shirley Jackson’s “The Haunting of Hill House,” that is exactly what the protagonist, Eleanor, does. However, Jackson puts her own twist on the classic haunted house story by using more confusing, psychological horror and conversational style to really make the horror realistic. Nonetheless, I was a tad disappointed. While I thought it was an interesting read, there were only a few moments that I felt truly scared (and I am easily frightened).

What really struck me about Jackson’s writing style was the contrasting use of syntax and diction. She often uses long sentences that require me to double back to make sure I got every detail. This recurring longevity furthers the suspense and also parallels with Eleanors progression to madness. As Eleanor’s mental state degenerates, the sentences get more methodical and puzzling. This really allows for the reader to see her transformation in real time, and in turn be haunted by it too just like the other characters. However, while sentences grow in complexity with Eleanor, the language remains simplistic throughout. So despite having kafkaesque sentences, the language is accessible and allows for the scary moments to pertain more to the reader. Jackson’s simple language allows for simple sounds and actions to be turned into some of the scariest moments in the book. 

I think it’s fair to say the beautifully executed prose in this novel outweighs the plot itself. I applaud Jackson’s for taking a more psychological approach to her novel, and it creates a more unique reading experience as there aren’t as many classic horror tropes. Watching Eleanor descend into madness was definitely interesting as I found myself questioning the mysterious surroundings of Hill House like her. However, I can’t say I was exactly frightened. There were definitely a few moments where I had to put the book down for a second, but these scenes were short lived. Again, I was eager to flip to the next page as the plot was engaging, but ultimately, I was not frightened.

In conclusion, this is a great gothic novel. Jackson’s unique style is fascinating to decipher and reveals a complexity that matches the puzzling nature of Hill House itself. However, I just never got that scared. Nonetheless, I think it’s a perfect dark novel to read to get ready for the upcoming gloominess of winter. 

Ken Kasey’s “One Flew Over the Cuckoo’s Nest” is a profound, fun story that has powerful meaning and critique that has changed America. Now, I use the adjective fun lightly here, as this story has very serious scenes and critiques that should be taken seriously. Nonetheless, the moments of laughter and joy should be taken seriously too in order to make us question common stereotypes of the mentally ill through an easy medium of humor. I think the often witty tone allowed me space in order to reassess the seriousness in the situation. Ultimately, I think this a story of triumph, which is enhanced by the novel’s commanding language and enjoyable plot.

Kasey proved to be an effective author; I was captured by the strong language throughout the novel. This allowed for me to be overtaken by feelings character’s themselves felt, and in turn placed me in the ward itself. I was able to see exactly what was going on, and even feel it too. Despite the first person narration, I was able to imagine things so clearly that I could formulate feelings on my own. In addition, the narration and language worked together allowed for me to empathize with these people more and in turn draw overall meaning from the novel.

While I already believed the idea that everyone in life has importance solely based upon their ability to provide new ideas and perspective because of their individual traits, reading this novel helped me expand and think more about this idea. First, not everyone can get too someplace themselves; other people are needed to help you evolve. In the most cases, it would be better if this person was kind in their actions, and this book showed me that even the smallest actions can go the longest ways. But someone who evil, it feels like all they do is cause harm, there is opportunity to learn from them, even if it be to just not be like them. I think that everyone should approach people with intent to extract the best from them, but if met with evil, understand there can still be valuable lessons to extract. Also, don’t be so quick to dismiss the evil, for people can change.

Joan Didions’s Let Me Tell You What I Mean is the perfect title for what to expect in these newly published short stories. These 12 stories (mostly short essays), were actually written between 1968 and 2000; they just never got published until this year. These previously unseen stories give us a closer glimpse into Didion’s mind through various topics. Ranging from a fictional account of someone at a Gamblers Anonymous meeting to an essay confronting Martha Stewart’s authenticity, these essays cover a wide range of situations. Nonetheless, each is a display of Didion’s fascinating prose and insight into the human condition.

Within this collection of essays, there are quite literally two that directly address Didion’s signature style and how she crafts her stories. Her previous work at Vogue has a direct impact on her writing still to this day. She had to keep things concise and really become a master of the English language because of the limited characters. This translates into her writing- it’s very journalistic and almost psychological. Everything in this collection- whether fiction or nonfiction- reads as fiction because of this journalistic approach. It adds a serious tone to everything she writes which pairs well with the dry humor and the underlying philosophical themes she often includes. Every sentence is profound and a clear reflection of what Didion is thinking. The last sentence of “Getting Serenity” particularly struck me- “I got out fast then, before anyone could say “serenity” again, for it is a word I associate with death, and for several days after that meeting I wanted only to be in places where the lights were bright and no one counted days.” (15) In just this one sentence, the narrator’s complex emotions had a lingering effect on me. The repeated use of “I” combines the narrator’s emotions with mine, forcing empathy. In theme with the story, the sentence’s calm tone has a serene feeling. The juxtaposition of this tone with the narrator’s seemingly opposite reaction leaves us questioning what it really feels like to find “serenity.”

In addition to the distinct prose throughout these stories, there are continued emotional themes throughout this collection. Themes of authenticity and anxiety are central to almost all stories, especially my favorites, which are “Getting Serenity” and “everywomen.com.” “Getting Serenity” is a short about a person in a Gambler’s Anonymous meeting who quickly leaves. Within just one scene only taking up a few pages, Didion is able to overpower the reader into almost becoming one with the narrator’s first person thoughts. However, we must detach ourselves to see the bigger picture to come to our own conclusions about the boundaries of indulging in vices. 

In “everywomen.com” Didion wanted to examine authenticity through her acute deatilling of who Martha Stewart really is. Didion, in detective-like investigation, explores the seemingly perfect career of Stewart. She uses this evidence to show us readers that there is always more than meets the eye, which is especially relevant in modern times when it feels like celebrities are worshipped. Furthermore, Didion goes deeper into the real meaning of why Stewart is so celebrated. Didion concludes that it’s more than just the attraction of her perfect lifestyle, but rather society’s influence on the role of women. 

In conclusion, the shortness of these essays should not undermine the meaningfulness. Every one of them is profound and is an excellent display of Didion’s ability to transfer her personal thoughts on paper. Her prose is unique and gives a reading experience like no other. Anyone who dreams of becoming a writer or something similar must read this collection to see how an icon of American writing came to be. 

Another teen male coming of age story… so who cares? Actually, John Knowles “A Separate Piece” deserves its spot as a classic. Knowles unrestrained emotion combined with his clement yet dense descriptions create a truly moving story of adolescence.

Knowles writing has a very slow burning affect which allows for him to really indulge in imagery and explore Genes(our protagonist and narrator) thoughts. Set in a New England boarding school, there is a lot of scenic descriptions throughout. These descriptions are quite beautiful to read- “in which the snow, white almost to blueness, lay like a soft comforter over the hills, and birches and pines indestructibly held their ground.” (132). We become teleported to where Gene is, and furthermore, become induced emotionally by the weather just as Gene is.

Another aspect furthered by the vivid descriptions is Knowles melancholy and quiet tone throughout. This matches the somber tone of the story, which in turn stresses the sadness in the story. His quiet tone almost has a numbing, or indifferent affect on the reader- which is exactly how the boys feel in response to the war. This deliberate tone to match and lay importance to certain emotions in this novel is truly amazing to read. Every sentence is not only profound in description but emotion as well.

Being a coming of age story, there are so many messages and teachings to impact. There are messages about friendship, finding oneself, and also larger questions about the war and what it really means. The main idea that resonated with me was Knowles wanting us to be ok with finding our “separate” selves. Especially as a teenager, we often shun part of selves to fit in. Wether it be turning away from things you find important to find things more “popular” or joining a war as part of some obligation, we often do things we don’t necessarily want because we feel that would be judged otherwise. Furthermore, there is a sense of comfort found in being part of something bigger. However, Knowles doesn’t want that to happen. We shouldn’t be afraid to be separated from anyone or thing, especially if it doesn’t feel right in our hearts. Through prioritizing finding our “separate” selves, we can find true fulfillment.

In conclusion, this book is truly a masterpiece. From it’s deep emotional impact to its beautiful writing, it has become one of my favorite coming of age stories. I highly recommend it to anyone.

Having discussed two Vonnegut novels on this blog already, it was only a matter of time before I turned to one of my favorite authors. This time I read what many refer to be his magnum opus, Slaughterhouse 5. When starting a Vonnegut book, you can never know what to expect. This is still the case here. The narrative perspective changes and can be confusing often, but it’s not too bad. For the discussion I’m going to stray away from plot and prose and just really focus on takeaways, as I find there are a lot in this book.

The main message I got from this book is that the world is absurd. There are so many contradictories in daily life that are impossible to understand. More importantly- as we see through Vonnegut’s blunt writing- more than often you are going to have to succumb to a high-power. This doesn’t make you a loser or chump, it’s just something that happens and you have to accept it. Wether it be directly an authority figure or an act of fate, your life will often be thrown for a loop and your’e going to have to deal with it. Nonetheless, there are still many ways to enjoy life, but also wrong ways. A simple solution to living with fulfillment is to find anything that brings you joy, and simply do it; wether it be something long term like a career or just reading something you like. These acts of enjoyment is the real key to living a successful life.

Furthermore, we shouldn’t try to rationalize every action. The phrase “so it goes” is often repeated in this novel. While a simple phrase, it holds weight. Things happen for no reason at all, and we should be ok with that. In conclusion, this book is full of important lessons taught with Vonnegut’s dry humor throughout. It is a great read and I highly recommend it to anyone.

Dashiell Hammett’s The Maltese Falcon is a cool, fast paced mystery novel that is a light but action packed read. If I was to describe this book in one word it would be cool. Hammett’s prose is very suave, producing a calm effect as the words glide across the page into your head. This pairs well with the protagonist, detective Sam Spades, nonchalant attitude. Nonetheless, the action and suspenseful scenes are still enticing. They aren’t too over the top as they build up naturally. In addition, the essence of mystery is constantly at change throughout the novel. This novel does a good job of keeping the mystery at large without just pushing back objective after objective. In conclusion, it’s a fast pace novel that is very entertaining to read; you can’t go wrong it.

Alas! I’m finally back! I apologize for my lack of posts, this summer has been quite a busy one. I have been working at a local coffee shop, applying for college, and much more. In addition, I went through a little writing slump. Nonetheless, I was still reading quite a lot, just didn’t quite feel like blogging. However, I’m very excited to be back. My most recent read was an interesting one, Haruki Murakami’s The Wind-Up Bird Chronicles. On the cover, one review got my attention saying the book is “dream-like”. I imagined this description in all the wrong ways. I thought it would be Kafkaesque or maybe just pure science fiction. But it was truly “dream-like”. The interesting characters with strange purposes, the constant flashbacks that adds complexities, or the actual dream scenes with many oddities, this is a book unlike any others. It really reminds me of anything David Lynch, it’s quite absurd but not entirely overwhelmingly fictional. However, Murakami isn’t afraid to probe more into human’s desire and thoughts. There is a lot of emotion within each character, and Murakami does a good job of translating their darkest thoughts onto paper. In conclusion, I was really pleasantly surprised with this novel and I look forward to reading more from Murakami.

After reading Kurt Vonnegut’s Cats Cradle, I knew this wouldn’t be the last time I read his works. His stylish prose and creative storylines are some of the best I have read. This story may not have much literal action scenes, but it’s so enticing. I finished it in one day because I couldn’t put it down. It’s a new favorite of mine, but for what reasoning it’s hard to describe with words. The story itself is filled with detail but it still very accessible- it’s merely a fictional account of German propagandist during WW2. Yet Vonnegut pushes the boundary of humor and describing emotion to create a beautiful story.

What I love most about reading is to read and discover different peoples perspectives on life. Further, emotions off the page can conjure up similar emotions in me which is an amazing process. Vonnegut does this so well- this novel is like a pure stream of conscious. In addition, the melancholy humor is very cut and dry but is still hilarious nonetheless. In conclusion, I think this may be one of the greatest novels ever. I don’t really know how to discuss it because it has elevated feelings in me that I can’t quite write yet. So please do yourself a favor and read this book.