The Stranger by Albert CamusMy rating: 5 of 5 stars
Seriously, after reading the last lines, a quiver shot through me. And this only happens when I am reading or have read an exceptionally good book.
Albert Camus's The Stranger, supports the philosophy I hold that one is solely responsible for his/her own life; that no one has the right to dictate another what or what not he/she should feel or do. Meursault's indifference to the events that occurred in his life - his mother's death, his killing of an Arab and his own death - I could relate to somehow, as at some point,I have become indifferent to the things that happened in my life, which I do not like to discuss.
The part where his case, id est his killing of an Arab, was tried, where the prosecutor vehemently imputed him with his guilt by turning his and the witnesses' words against him, that particular part made me realize that whether or not you tell the truth - as what Meursault did in the story - other people, more powerfully convincing people, will do anything to bring you to bay. So, when asked whether he would like to say anything, he just said, "No". I interpreted his refusal as his submission to life's futility.
With this book, I have come to know why my father encourages me to read philosophical novels. The depth of the themes presented is overwhelming that it propels the transformation of your thoughts, your beliefs and your life itself.
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Very good review Cyn. You may also check out novels of Jean Paul Sartre like NO EXIT and THE ROADS TO FREEDOM. He is one of the most celebrated existential philosophers in his time.
ReplyDeleteI have his books in my list Cas. :) Thank you for leaving a comment. :) Hurrah for existentialism! :D
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