Lola Karimi ’25
EE Editor-in-Chief
Set somewhere in northern Italy in the 1980’s, the novel encapsulates the humanity and purity that love brings, and along with that, the pain of its ending. Written about a homosexual couple, this was truly a piece written before its time and was essential in integrating these relationships into the public eye of a once very one sided society.
Elio’s family, one of the main characters, invites an American Graduate student each summer to help Elio’s dad with his work while managing a project of their own. To Elio, this causes much disruption and not much else, having to move out of his bedroom for a smaller one down the hall so the guest has more space.
But looking out the window at the new guest, it felt different this time. While both masked the romantic tension with indifference, their summer of love gave them plenty of time to become more accommodated to each other. A combination of the fascination of the unknown and rebellion of their desire, the two have an experience of a lifetime for the mere six weeks they have together.
The sections of the book where Elio imagines what he would say to Oliver, the various answers he might at any given time speak in Oliver’s presence—before his intimacy with Oliver begins—are some of its best parts. Elio’s imagination is whirling with potential outcomes. Does he really want this? Though he’s unsure, he’s curious to learn.
I adore Aciman’s writing, principles, and attention to even the smallest details. This book is mostly internal. Since we are so engrossed in our thoughts in real life, the prospect of things happening is more realistic than actual events occurring. You only truly see his interesting use of form and words toward the conclusion, which really ties everything together.
See, there is no plot in this book. I detest novels without a plot, where everything happens inexplicably and in no particular order. However, this book succeeded because it lacked a storyline. This book gives us a glimpse into the sinful, real, and raw emotions and feelings of Elio, a complex and unique character who, at the age of 17, falls in love with a man who is 24 years old. Is there anything more lovely than this? His feelings are so genuine that they manifest; we can taste, smell, and feel them for ourselves.
While the writing is very pretentious, the language choices are spot on. After watching the movie interpretation as well, I can say I was very pleased with the similarities between the two.
This book perfectly encapsulates the feeling of your first love and it may have you crying more than your own did!! The entrancement of even watching them run and swim brings the connection deeper. This book says everything you wish you did and more.
It’s my sincere wish that each and every one of us would experience love like this. I was deeply moved by their love in many ways, and I hope that there is love like this in the world.