The New York Trilogy: City of Glass / Ghosts / The Locked Room : Book Review

The New York Trilogy by Paul Auster is a collection of three interconnected novellas that offer a captivating exploration of identity, reality, and the blurred lines between fiction and truth. Each novella presents a unique narrative that keeps readers guessing until the very end, while also providing thought-provoking themes that delve into the complexities of human existence.

The first novella, City of Glass, introduces us to Daniel Quinn, a writer who becomes caught up in a perplexing case of mistaken identity. As Quinn delves deeper into the investigation, he finds himself increasingly lost in a web of truth and fiction. This story sets the tone for the trilogy, foreshadowing the intricate and enigmatic nature of the subsequent narratives.

In Ghosts, the second novella, we meet a private investigator named Blue who is tasked with uncovering the secrets surrounding a mysterious man known as Black. Black has been silently observing a woman from his window for years, and Blue's investigation leads him down a path filled with layers of deception and illusion. This story further adds to the overall atmosphere of intrigue and uncertainty that permeates the trilogy.

The final novella, The Locked Room, focuses on a writer named Fanshawe who disappears, leaving behind a hidden manuscript. The narrator, a close friend of Fanshawe, embarks on a journey to uncover the truth behind his disappearance and the contents of the manuscript. This novella further delves into themes of identity and the impact of personal choices, while also drawing connections to the previous stories in subtle and intriguing ways.

What sets The New York Trilogy apart is Auster's skillful manipulation of literary conventions and his ability to blur the boundary between reality and fiction. The narratives often shift between different perspectives, challenging the reader's perception of what is real and what is imagined. Auster's writing style is poetic and evocative, providing a captivating reading experience that lingers long after the book is finished.

What are readers saying?

Opinions on Paul Auster's The New York Trilogy vary among readers on Goodreads. While some reviewers praise the intricate storytelling and thought-provoking themes, others find the book confusing and overly complex.

Many readers admire the trilogy's unique and unconventional nature. They find the storytelling captivating and applaud Auster's ability to intertwine multiple narratives. The exploration of identity and reality, as well as the interconnectedness of the stories, resonates with readers, leaving them fascinated and eager to delve deeper into the book.

However, there are also reviewers who express feelings of confusion and being lost while reading The New York Trilogy. They struggle to follow the plot and feel overwhelmed by the abundance of literary references. For some, the complex structure detracts from their enjoyment, making it a challenging read rather than an engaging one.

Opinions on the character development within the trilogy are also mixed. Some readers appreciate the depth and complexity of the characters, finding them relatable and well-rounded. Others, however, find the characters lacking in depth and struggle to emotionally connect with them.

The writing style of Paul Auster is a point of contention among reviewers. Many readers praise his evocative prose and his ability to capture the essence of New York City. They appreciate the rich descriptions and the atmospheric quality of his writing. Conversely, some readers find the prose dense and verbose, making it difficult for them to fully engage with the story.

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