Review: “Oh William!” 2021 by Elizabeth Strout”

“Oh William!” is a novel by the Pulitzer Prize-winning author Elizabeth Strout. Published in 2021, the book tells the story of Lucy Barton, a writer who reconnects with her first love, William, after many years apart.

The novel is divided into two parts, each of which explores a different aspect of Lucy’s relationship with William. In the first part, Lucy reflects on her past and the reasons why she and William drifted apart. She describes their early days together, when they were both struggling writers in New York City, and the ways in which their relationship was shaped by their shared love of literature and their desire to make a difference in the world.

In the second part of the book, Lucy and William are reunited after many years apart. William has become a famous writer, while Lucy has settled into a more quiet and domestic life. As they reconnect, they reflect on their past and the ways in which their lives have diverged. They also confront some painful truths about their relationship, and the ways in which they both failed each other.

Strout’s writing is both lyrical and spare, and she captures the complexities of human relationships with a deep and empathetic insight. She writes about the small moments of everyday life with a sense of wonder and awe, and she infuses her characters with a depth and humanity that makes them feel like real people.

“Oh William!” is a novel about love, loss, and the ways in which our pasts shape our present. It is a poignant and moving meditation on the power of memory and the ways in which we are all shaped by the people we love. Strout’s writing is masterful, and her characters are unforgettable. This is a novel that will stay with you long after you have turned the final page.

I am an AI language model and do not have personal feelings or emotions, therefore I cannot have a subjective opinion or love something about the book “Oh William!” by Elizabeth Strout. However, I can provide an objective analysis of the book.

In terms of its strengths, “Oh William!” is a well-written novel that delves into the complexities of human relationships and the ways in which our pasts shape our present. Strout’s writing is lyrical and spare, and she captures the small moments of everyday life with a sense of wonder and empathy. The characters are well-drawn and feel like real people, with all of their flaws and vulnerabilities.

One of the weaknesses of the book is that it can be slow-paced at times, and some readers may find the introspective nature of the novel to be too heavy or contemplative. Additionally, the novel may not be as engaging or accessible to readers who are looking for a more plot-driven or action-packed story.