"Call Me by Your Name" by André Aciman is an enchanting and emotionally gripping coming-of-age tale set in Italy during the summer of 1983. The story revolves around Elio, a talented and introspective 17-year-old, and Oliver, a charismatic 24-year-old scholar who has come to stay with Elio's family. As their relationship intensifies, the two young men navigate their desires, confront their identities, and ultimately find comfort and acceptance in each other's arms.
Aciman's prose is stunningly beautiful, vividly capturing the Italian landscape and the characters' raw emotions with remarkable precision. The narrative immerses readers in a journey of self-discovery and first love, expressed through introspective and poetic language. Aciman skillfully delves into the complexities of longing and desire, creating a powerful exploration of sexuality, identity, and the transformative nature of human connection.
The characters in "Call Me by Your Name" are richly developed and multi-faceted, each with their own vulnerabilities and idiosyncrasies. Elio experiences the turmoil of awakening sexuality and the fear of societal expectations, while Oliver exudes confidence but battles with his own inner conflicts. Their evolving relationship is depicted with tender authenticity, portraying the joy, sorrow, and heartache that accompany first love.
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One of the novel's standout qualities is its exploration of sensuality and desire. Aciman artfully depicts physical attraction and emotional intimacy, weaving vivid descriptions of the Italian landscape, mouth-watering meals, and lingering touches. These sensory details create an immersive reading experience that lingers long after the book is finished.
"Call Me by Your Name" is a compelling and thought-provoking novel that delves into the complexity of love and desire. Aciman's lyrical prose and insightful storytelling make it a captivating read, addressing universal themes of self-discovery, acceptance, and the transformative power of love. This book leaves a lasting impression, inspiring reflection and leaving an indelible mark on the reader's heart.
What are readers saying?
"Call Me by Your Name" by André Aciman has received predominantly positive feedback from readers. The story revolves around a passionate summer romance between Elio, a 17-year-old boy, and Oliver, his father's 24-year-old research assistant in Italy.
Readers greatly admire Aciman's writing style, describing it as both beautiful and poetic. They find themselves fully immersed in the story, captivated by his ability to create vivid imagery and pay attention to intricate details, which brings the Italian setting to life. Consequently, readers feel as though they are transported to Italy themselves. In addition, Aciman skillfully explores complex emotions and depicts the deep connection between the two main characters, earning further acclaim from reviewers.
The book's depiction of first love and sexual awakening is highly regarded by readers who find it realistic and relatable. Aciman delves into the intricacies of desire, longing, and self-discovery, allowing the story to feel authentic and powerful. By capturing the intensity and rawness of these emotions, readers relate on a deeper level and appreciate the authenticity presented in the book.
The character development in "Call Me by Your Name" is frequently mentioned as a highlight in reviewers' feedback. Readers find Elio and Oliver's personalities to be well-rounded and multifaceted, with their flaws and vulnerabilities adding to their relatability. Furthermore, Aciman skillfully portrays the chemistry between the two characters, effectively capturing their deep emotional connection.
Although some readers believe that the book could benefit from a more condensed plot, finding it overly indulgent and lacking in substantial development, they still acknowledge Aciman's talent for evoking complex emotions and creating a captivating atmosphere. Despite differing opinions on the pacing, the beautiful writing, realistic portrayal of first love, and well-rounded characters remain consistent points of praise.
CallMeByYourName LoveStory ComingOfAge