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A review by monazaneefer
First Love by Ivan Turgenev
3.0
Format: Audible (narrator was fantastic + I need to find out who the translator is.)
The story in of itself wasn’t all that amazing. It was alright. I think it would have been strong had there been some undertones of mystery. Instead, we know exactly what the “twist” is (although, considering we’re mean to know the twist, is it really a twist?). So this story really isn’t plot-centred, nor is it even character-driven. It’s simply trying to encapsulate an aspect of life. Nothing groundbreaking.
But the writing makes up for it. So beautiful. And I think the beauty comes from the fact that the writing style, language weren't at all exaggerated, self-conscious or dense, but rather effortless. It’s like this novella was dipped in berry juice, and came out with no stains and instead only bore the permeating yet non-overpowering scent whose source you’ll never be able to pinpoint.
It wasn’t even the descriptions but something about the author’s diction made the story extremely atmospheric. That and a few minor scenes amidst its setting. Wouldn’t it have been a great story had it been haunting? Alas, we can not have it all.
Generally, there are stories I read which make me want to study and acquire the skill of certain elements. For eg, with George Elliot, it’s her masterful characterisation. With this novella, it’s the writing style.
The story in of itself wasn’t all that amazing. It was alright. I think it would have been strong had there been some undertones of mystery. Instead, we know exactly what the “twist” is (although, considering we’re mean to know the twist, is it really a twist?). So this story really isn’t plot-centred, nor is it even character-driven. It’s simply trying to encapsulate an aspect of life. Nothing groundbreaking.
But the writing makes up for it. So beautiful. And I think the beauty comes from the fact that the writing style, language weren't at all exaggerated, self-conscious or dense, but rather effortless. It’s like this novella was dipped in berry juice, and came out with no stains and instead only bore the permeating yet non-overpowering scent whose source you’ll never be able to pinpoint.
It wasn’t even the descriptions but something about the author’s diction made the story extremely atmospheric. That and a few minor scenes amidst its setting. Wouldn’t it have been a great story had it been haunting? Alas, we can not have it all.
Generally, there are stories I read which make me want to study and acquire the skill of certain elements. For eg, with George Elliot, it’s her masterful characterisation. With this novella, it’s the writing style.