Angel is dark and plain, introverted and submissive, a spontaneous composer of childish verses, wholly consumed by the wild, seductive spell of her cousin Lara – a beautiful, irresponsible creature who expresses herself in free-form dance.
What begins as a tender and intimate attachment between two young girls deepens in adulthood into something complex and perilous, as Lara’s life spins in increasingly erratic circles while Angel’s passionate devotion to her remains undiminished. It is a feverish and impenetrable relationship, of reckless master and willing slave, one forged to shield both Angel and Lara from the harshness of their surroundings, as well as from the far greater terrors of the self. It is a relationship that will end in terror for the young women, and for their families.
Set against the vivid, dream-like landscape of of Manhattan in the recent past, Poet and Dancer is an altogether unforgettable novel, written with the subtlety, wry humour and beauty that are the hallmarks of one of the twentieth century’s most brilliant novelists and storytellers.
**Delve into a World of Obsession and Illusion in Ruth Prawer Jhabvala's *Poet and Dancer*** Enter the mesmerizing world of Ruth Prawer Jhabvala's *Poet and Dancer*, a psychological exploration of a dangerously intimate relationship set against the vibrant, yet often isolating, backdrop of a recent-past Manhattan. This unforgettable novel, published in 2019 by LITTLE BROWN, delves into the complexities of female friendship, obsession, and the desperate need for escape from harsh realities. At 224 pages, this literary work is a quick but satisfying read. At the heart of the story are Angel and Lara, two cousins whose lives become inextricably intertwined from a young age. Angel, described as dark, plain, introverted, and submissive, finds solace in composing childish verses, her inner world a stark contrast to her outward appearance. She is utterly captivated by Lara, a strikingly beautiful and seemingly carefree spirit who expresses herself through spontaneous and unrestrained dance. Lara is a magnet for attention, exuding a charisma that draws Angel into her orbit. What begins as a tender and seemingly innocent childhood bond evolves into a complex and perilous relationship as the girls mature into adulthood. Lara's life spirals into increasingly erratic patterns, marked by impulsive decisions and a disregard for consequences. Angel, however, remains steadfast in her passionate devotion, even as Lara's behavior becomes more destructive. Their relationship is a feverish and impenetrable one, a delicate dance between reckless master and willing slave. It's a union forged to shield both Angel and Lara not only from the harsh realities of their surroundings but also from the far greater terrors that lie within themselves their fears, insecurities, and suppressed desires. It's a co-dependent relationship that protects them from the real world and the self but at the same time, holds them back. Jhabvala masterfully portrays the intensity of this dynamic, revealing the undercurrents of jealousy, possessiveness, and the constant struggle for power. She explores the ways in which their relationship distorts their perceptions of reality, creating a world of illusion and shared fantasy that ultimately leads them down a destructive path. *Poet and Dancer* is more than just a story of female friendship; it's a profound meditation on the human condition, exploring themes of identity, belonging, and the search for meaning in a world that often feels alienating. Jhabvala's signature wit and incisive observations add layers of depth to the narrative, making it both thought-provoking and emotionally resonant. The novel is set against the backdrop of a dream-like Manhattan, a city that serves as both a source of inspiration and a symbol of alienation. Jhabvala paints a vivid portrait of the city's energy and vibrancy, capturing its allure and its capacity for both beauty and decay. Ruth Prawer Jhabvala, celebrated for her insightful portrayals of human relationships and her ability to capture the nuances of cultural differences, delivers another literary masterpiece with *Poet and Dancer*. Known for her screenwriting (earning Oscars for *A Room with a View* and *Howards End*), she brings a cinematic quality to her prose, creating scenes that are both visually stunning and emotionally charged. The recipient of the Booker Prize for *Heat and Dust*, Jhabvalas distinct voice and perceptive storytelling make *Poet and Dancer* an essential addition to any literary collection. Prepare to be captivated by the intricate web of emotions, the haunting beauty of the prose, and the unforgettable characters that populate the pages of *Poet and Dancer*. This is a novel that will stay with you long after you've turned the final page, prompting you to reflect on the complexities of human connection and the enduring power of love, loss, and ultimately, self-discovery.
