Illustration by Liz Zonarich/Harvard Staff
Harvard faculty and staff discuss the allure of novels featuring unreliable narrators, explaining the attraction to these complex characters. Sy Boles, a Harvard staff writer, highlights the long-standing presence of such narrators in storytelling. Ian Shank, an expository writing preceptor, notes that the relationship between reader, narrator, and author creates a uniquely intense reading experience, reflecting the complexities of real-life interactions.
Shank observes that people often present an artificial persona in various social situations, and unreliable narrators effectively reveal these everyday fictions. This exposure is compelling because it mirrors the way individuals cling to their self-perceptions. Readers are drawn to narrators with personal flaws and agendas, as shown by recommendations from university staff.
Ian Shank recommends “Leaving the Atocha Station” by Ben Lerner, a novel that established Lerner as a leading literary voice. The book’s young poet protagonist navigates life in Madrid, grappling with mental health issues, drug use, and dishonest behavior, while Lerner’s writing style captivates readers.
Erin LaBove suggests “Motherthing” by Ainslie Hogarth, a story about Abby Lamb, who deals with a difficult mother-in-law haunting her after death. Abby’s journey is humorously intertwined with vintage cookbooks, providing an engaging narrative.
Edwin Frank highlights Daniel Defoe’s “Moll Flanders,” emphasizing the book’s candid depiction of a character navigating a world of schemes and risks. The narrative’s hypnotic first-person perspective draws readers into its untrustworthy tale.
Kai Fay recommends “Recipe for Persuasion” by Sonali Dev, a modern retelling of “Persuasion” involving chef Ashna Raje and retired soccer player Rico Silva. The novel explores themes of grief and miscommunication through alternating perspectives, showcasing the unreliability of its narrators.
D.Z. Kalman praises Jason Shiga’s “Adventuregame Comics” series for its innovative take on the choose-your-own-adventure genre. Shiga’s work encourages readers to question the format’s rigidity, offering a mature narrative experience.
Original Source: news.harvard.edu
