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| such a pretty cover |
Life on a commune has always intrigued me and through Groff’s strong ability for character development I really got a sense of how this cast of characters struggle towards their ideals. Bit describes his parent's dreams for the commune and the harsh reality that comes from completely relying on the help of others for everything from food, to heat, to the clothes on your back. Some of the paragraphs in Arcadia are beautifully written. Groff welcomes the reader to feel the sun on their face, sweat from hard work and enjoy the little moments that life brings to Bit. Things that we would probably take for granted are treasured by Bit and are described so perfectly that the reader can be fully immersed in Bit's culture. Bit is observant, articulate and has a wonderfully boyish way of viewing the world. He is a fun character to get to know as he (and the reader) unpack this complicated puzzle of a life.
Of course, where would a novel about a commune be without the politics that can occur within this type of society? As the book unfolds we see an internal battle that happens when people are selfish and out for themselves. This read is fascinating and an intriguing look into both the love and opportunistic qualities that humankind can struggle with.
That being said, the final section follows Bit once he is an adult. While the first two sections were poetic and an intriguing look into human potential, the third section reads a bit like a sappy drama. Not to give anything away but Arcadia started strong and then lost some of its edge and poetry. Then again, maybe that was the point? I enjoyed this novel and Groff's characters were all very interesting but by the middle of the third section I was ready to finish the book.
Have you read anything interesting lately? I always love suggestions. Thanks for looking. Love, Ms. Kate.
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