Not Wanted on the Voyage : Book Review

"Not Wanted on the Voyage" by Timothy Findley is a captivating and thought-provoking novel that presents a dark and imaginative retelling of the biblical tale of Noah's Ark. Set in the early 1900s, this book delves deep into the intricate lives and inner desires of its characters, while exploring themes such as power, madness, and the essence of humanity.

The narrative revolves around Noah Noyes, a morally ambiguous and tyrannical figure who makes the decision to construct an ark to rescue a select group of animals and his own family from an impending flood. Findley's talent lies in his ability to breathe life into his characters, each with their own unique flaws and struggles. From Noah's wife, Lucy, plagued by visions and haunted by demons, to his rebellious daughter, Alice, the dynamics within the Noyes family are complex and intriguing.

The author's writing style is both descriptive and poetic, employing vivid imagery that enhances the reading experience. The imagery often takes on a dark and unsettling tone, mirroring the chaotic and oppressive atmosphere of the story. Furthermore, Findley raises profound questions about religion and belief systems, challenging readers to reflect on their own faith and the consequences of unquestioning obedience.

One of the most outstanding aspects of this novel is Findley's incorporation of magical realism. Through the character of Isobelle, a talking cat who serves as a guide and witness to the events, the story takes on a whimsical and fantastical quality. This unique blend of realism and enchantment adds depth and intrigue to the narrative, captivating readers even further.

In conclusion, "Not Wanted on the Voyage" is a powerful and haunting novel that skillfully combines biblical themes, complex characters, and magical elements. Timothy Findley's masterful storytelling invites readers on a thrilling and profound journey, leaving a lasting impression of the exploration of human nature.

What are readers saying?

The response to Timothy Findley's novel "Not Wanted on the Voyage" has been mixed, with readers expressing a range of opinions. The book offers a reinterpretation of the biblical story of Noah's Ark, exploring themes of power, control, and the human condition.

Some reviewers praised Findley's ability to breathe new life into the ancient tale by delving into complex characters and their motivations. They found the writing style engaging and the story thought-provoking, appreciating its exploration of moral and ethical dilemmas, as well as human relationships and the abuse of power.

However, others were less impressed with the book. They felt that the plot moved at a slow pace and lacked cohesion, making it difficult to fully immerse themselves in the story. Some readers also found the characters lacking in depth, which hindered their overall enjoyment. These reviewers were disappointed by the execution of the concept and felt it fell short of their expectations.

One aspect that consistently received praise was Findley's writing style. Many admired his descriptive language and his ability to create vivid imagery. They found his prose to be poetic and atmospheric, enhancing the overall reading experience.

Nevertheless, some readers found Findley's writing style overly dense and convoluted, making it challenging to follow the narrative. They felt that the excessive use of symbolism and metaphor weighed down the story, detracting from the plot and character development.

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