Review of Parallel Lines by Edward St. Aubyn
I must admit, I was drawn to Parallel Lines by Edward St. Aubyn primarily because I’d heard whispers of its nuanced exploration of identity and family intertwined with a dash of psychological depth. As a self-proclaimed lover of character-driven narratives, the promise of delving into the fractured psyche of Sebastian—one of the novel’s protagonists—felt like an enticing journey worth embarking on. Having recently finished another of St. Aubyn’s works, I was eager to see how this second installment in the yet-to-be-named series would unfold.
Parallel Lines introduces us to Sebastian, a brilliant yet troubled man grappling with schizophrenia under the watchful eye of his analyst, Dr. Carr, who just so happens to be the father of Olivia, Sebastian’s estranged twin sister. This crisscrossing of familial ties serves as a launching pad for a plot that, while seemingly straightforward—twins separated in childhood—becomes a rich tapestry of psychological and emotional intricacies.
St. Aubyn’s third-person narration feels distinctly alive when reflecting Sebastian’s inner turmoil. His voice is vivid and at times dizzying, inviting readers into a mind that is both fractured and inquisitive. I found myself captivated by the disjointed narrative that seamlessly blends philosophical musings with social commentary—the writing possessed a rhythm that was at once complex and accessible. Through Sebastian’s thoughts, the novel explores themes of environmentalism, genetics, identity, and the intricacies of family bonds.
One of my favorite moments was when Sebastian mused on the differing states of stress and distress, reflected in the line, “…stress and distress were weirdly related…but an uncommon dis.” Such reflections illustrate St. Aubyn’s knack for layering meaning while keeping the prose sharp and poignant. Another delightful gem was Olivia’s whimsical scientific approach to life, particularly when she likens wine glass experiments to double-blind studies. St. Aubyn employs wit to examine profound themes, illuminating the quirks of intellect amidst familial chaos.
The cast surrounding Sebastian is equally compelling; Helio, his nurse and friend, becomes a vital source of support, while Olivia and her genius son, Noah, entwine beautifully into the story. Each character is flawed yet relatable, prompting deeper reflections on the nature of human connections. I appreciated how St. Aubyn embraces complexity by allowing his characters to err, grow, and elicit empathy, despite their privileged backgrounds.
While the political commentary in Parallel Lines is subtle, its examination of class and intellectualism resonates throughout. The stories of these well-educated individuals unfold in their sparkling isolation, yet the satire embedded within exposes the absurdities of their worlds. This duality—entertainment laced with critique—made for a rewarding reading experience.
I can easily recommend Parallel Lines to those who value intricate character studies and lush writing over fast-paced plots. If you enjoy untangling the threads of character motivations and revel in the delights of keenly observed prose, this book awaits your discovery. For me, it was a cathartic delve into the emotional and psychological depths of human relationships, and I eagerly anticipate the next installment of St. Aubyn’s series to see where these parallel lives will converge.
Rating: 4.25/5
In conclusion, Parallel Lines is not just a retelling of a familial reunion; it’s a profound exploration of identity and connection that will resonate with anyone willing to engage in its rich layers. This thought-provoking narrative left me hopeful, with a sense of anticipation for the journeys yet to unfold. If you’re someone who relishes dissecting the complexities of human nature, Parallel Lines is a literary adventure that should not be missed.