Nearer the Moon: From "A Journal of Love": The Unexpurgated Diary of Anaïs Nin, 1937-1939 : Book Review

"Nearer the Moon" by Anaïs Nin is an enthralling collection of her personal diary entries, spanning eight years from 1937 to 1945. As one of the twentieth century's most notable female writers, Nin offers a profound and introspective exploration of her thoughts, emotions, and relationships during a period of great upheaval. Through her eloquent prose and honest self-reflections, readers are welcomed into the complex and at times contradictory world of Nin's innermost thoughts and desires.

The diary entries in "Nearer the Moon" unveil Nin's intense relationships with both men and women, providing a window into her complex sexuality and unconventional love affairs. Her writing is imbued with a poetic sensuality, allowing readers to immerse themselves in the intimate moments she shares with her lovers. Despite the unconventional nature of her relationships, there is a deep longing for connection and understanding that reverberates throughout the book.

In addition to her romantic entanglements, Nin delves into the exploration of her own identity as a woman and an artist. She grapples with societal expectations and gender norms, fearlessly confronting her own insecurities and fears. Through her words, Nin presents a powerful testament to the indomitable strength and resilience of the female spirit.

"Nearer the Moon" also offers a glimpse into the historical context of the pre-war and World War II era. Nin's observations and insights shed light on the political and social climate of the time, providing depth and context to her personal narrative. Her reflections on the impact of war, both on a global and personal scale, make this collection not just a personal document but also a poignant exploration of the human condition.

Overall, "Nearer the Moon" is a captivating and introspective collection that offers an unfiltered and intimate look into the mind and heart of Anaïs Nin. Through her lyrical and evocative prose, she explores themes of love, desire, identity, and the ebb and flow of the human experience. This book is sure to captivate readers who appreciate deeply personal and thought-provoking literature.

What are readers saying?

The novel "Nearer the Moon" by Anaïs Nin has received a mixed reception. This compilation of short stories delves into themes of love, desire, and self-discovery. Opinions on the book vary, with some readers finding it captivating and beautifully written, while others are disappointed by its lack of depth and character development.

Those who enjoyed the book praised Anaïs Nin's poetic and evocative writing style. They were impressed by her ability to paint vivid imagery and evoke complex emotions in her stories. The sensuality and exploration of desire were particularly intriguing and thought-provoking. These readers felt a deep connection to the characters and their experiences, appreciating the poetic nature of the prose.

However, not all readers were enamored with "Nearer the Moon." They felt the stories lacked substance and failed to provide the desired depth. Some reviewers noted underdeveloped characters and disjointed narratives, making it difficult for them to engage with the stories on an emotional level. The repetitive nature of the themes and motifs throughout the collection also left some longing for more variety and originality in the storytelling.

Overall, the reviews for "Nearer the Moon" by Anaïs Nin are divided. While some readers appreciate the lyrical writing and exploration of desire, others are disappointed by the lack of depth and character development. If you enjoy poetic prose and are interested in themes of love and self-discovery, this book may be worth exploring. However, if you prefer more substantial narratives and well-rounded characters, you might find this collection lacking.