A review of novella, “POSSESSION” by Annie Ernaux (Translated by Anna Moschovakis)
From the first sentence of “Possession,” Annie Ernaux sets a sense of desperation in the reader that is carried throughout this tasty morsel of a novella called, “Possession.”
As the main character, a successful professor, walks through the streets of Paris, she believes every woman she sees to be the new lover of her ex. And, if they lock eyes, her belief is strengthened.
Ernaux’s crisp depiction of the main character creates a discomfort so palpable for the reader it becomes equal in tenor as if one were spying on a patient with her psychiatrist. She utilizes inference with precision. The realness of each moment and the height of conflict achieved by the character’s internal thinking are masterfully written. Ernaux has taken an old idea, one using the psyche of a scorned woman, and has written a fresh and sometimes frightening account.
What “Possession” lacks in dialogue, it more than makes up for in tension. However, in no way do I want a reader to believe my words to mean the story needs dialogue – it does not. Ernaux’s “Possession” is one of those perfect little pieces of writing that stays with you long after its been read. “Possession” is, by far, one of the finest pieces of literary art out.
As I read, I kept thinking, “So, this is how it’s done.” Parfait, Ms. Ernaux. – Susan Wingate, author of "Bobby's Diner" and "Of the Law" (January 23, 2009)
From the first sentence of “Possession,” Annie Ernaux sets a sense of desperation in the reader that is carried throughout this tasty morsel of a novella called, “Possession.”
As the main character, a successful professor, walks through the streets of Paris, she believes every woman she sees to be the new lover of her ex. And, if they lock eyes, her belief is strengthened.
Ernaux’s crisp depiction of the main character creates a discomfort so palpable for the reader it becomes equal in tenor as if one were spying on a patient with her psychiatrist. She utilizes inference with precision. The realness of each moment and the height of conflict achieved by the character’s internal thinking are masterfully written. Ernaux has taken an old idea, one using the psyche of a scorned woman, and has written a fresh and sometimes frightening account.
What “Possession” lacks in dialogue, it more than makes up for in tension. However, in no way do I want a reader to believe my words to mean the story needs dialogue – it does not. Ernaux’s “Possession” is one of those perfect little pieces of writing that stays with you long after its been read. “Possession” is, by far, one of the finest pieces of literary art out.
As I read, I kept thinking, “So, this is how it’s done.” Parfait, Ms. Ernaux. – Susan Wingate, author of "Bobby's Diner" and "Of the Law" (January 23, 2009)
This review was given at no charge to the author or publisher
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