The Go-Between : Book Review

"The Go-Between" by L.P. Hartley is an enchanting novel set in the scorching summer of 1900. Through the eyes of the sixty-year-old narrator, Leo Colston, we are transported back to his youth as he stumbles upon his diary from that fateful summer. As Leo delves into his past, we are drawn into a story of forbidden love and the devastating consequences it has on his life.

Leo, initially an innocent and curious young boy, becomes entangled in a web of secrets and deceit when he is requested by his friend Marcus to deliver messages between Marcus' sister, Marian, and her lover, Ted. In this stifling environment of social hierarchy and repressed desires, Leo becomes both an observer and a participant in an affair that ultimately destroys the lives of those involved.

Hartley masterfully depicts the complexities of class divisions and the suffocating atmosphere of the Edwardian era. The oppressive heat of the summer becomes a powerful metaphor for the simmering emotions and hidden passions that lie beneath the polished surface of society. As Leo navigates the treacherous landscape of love and adulthood, he unknowingly sets in motion a chain of events that will haunt him for the rest of his life.

Memory, manipulation, and regret are central themes in this compelling narrative. Hartley seamlessly weaves between past and present, allowing Leo to reflect on the profound impact of that summer on his existence. The author's evocative prose transports us to the picturesque English countryside while highlighting the stark divisions between social classes.

"The Go-Between" is a haunting coming-of-age tale that delves into the intricate dynamics of human relationships and the lasting repercussions of concealed truths. Hartley eloquently captures the vulnerability and naivety of adolescence, juxtaposing it with the harsh realities of adulthood. This timeless classic resonates with readers of all ages, serving as a poignant reminder of the profound impact our choices can have on our lives.

What are readers saying?

The reception of L.P. Hartley's novel, The Go-Between, has been varied among readers, with opinions ranging from positive to negative. While some readers have commended the book for its captivating storytelling and profound themes, others have criticized it for its slow-paced nature and lack of excitement.

Many positive reviews highlight Hartley's beautiful writing style and his ability to create a vivid and immersive setting in the English countryside of the early 1900s. Readers appreciate the author's eloquent prose and attention to detail, which effectively transport them into the world of the story. They also praise Hartley for his skill in evoking a sense of time and place.

Opinions on the characters in the novel are divided. Some readers appreciate their depth and complexity, finding them relatable and engaging. However, others feel that the characters lack development and fail to elicit strong emotions. Some reviewers express frustration with the protagonist, Leo, finding his naivety and lack of agency tiresome.

The central themes explored in The Go-Between receive positive feedback from many readers. The novel delves into topics such as memory, class, and the consequences of a forbidden love affair. Readers appreciate the thought-provoking nature of these themes and consider them to be the book's strongest aspect. They also find the exploration of the class divide and its impact on relationships to be compelling.

However, not all readers are captivated by The Go-Between. Some find the pacing slow and the plot lacking excitement and momentum. These reviewers feel that the story fails to fully engage them and lacks suspense. Additionally, some find the narrative structure confusing, as the story is told in a non-linear fashion with frequent shifts in time.

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