Urgent pleas for aid: call, kin!
In the contemporary Spanish novel, "The Family" by Sara Mesa, the reader is drawn into the intricate web of relationships within a family, where each individual grapples with their own unhappiness. The narrative unfolds in a family's apartment, meticulously described in the first chapter, setting the stage for the complex dynamics that unfold.
The family consists of four children - Damian, Rosa, Aquinino, and Martina - and their parents, who support each other through various challenges. However, the patriarch, with a hidden penchant for subtle control, adheres to Gandhi's philosophy of non-violence while exerting his influence over his wife and children.
The novel's uncle, a lively character who breaks the family's strict discipline with his smoking, drinking, and forbidden gifts, often provokes arguments that challenge the family's dynamics. One of the children, Martina, buys a notebook with a small lock, which her father suspects is a diary, adding another layer of tension to the family's interactions.
Damian, a comic book enthusiast, is asked by his father to discard his collection, seen as too childish. This request underscores the father's rigid expectations and his attempts to control the family's behaviour. Despite these attempts, the father's unhappiness remains a mystery throughout the novel, only becoming clear by its end.
Sara Mesa, known for her keen eye for narrative timing and the psychology of her characters, masterfully weaves a coming-of-age story about breaking free from one's origins. The novel, translated from Spanish by Peter Kulten, can be considered a reflection of modern society, exploring themes of love, loss, and relationships within the family unit, as well as the impact of societal pressures on family structures.
Without losing sympathy for her unfortunate protagonists, Mesa delves into the complexities of family relationships and the societal factors that influence them, drawing comparisons with classic works such as Leo Tolstoy's "Anna Karenina." While "Anna Karenina" focuses on the high society of 19th-century Russia, "The Family" offers a contemporary perspective, examining the intricate relationships within a family in a modern setting.
"The Family" is a 240-page novel, published in hardcover, and priced at 24 €. It serves as a compelling exploration of the complexities of family dynamics, offering a thought-provoking read for any general audience.
- The family dynamics in "The Family" by Sara Mesa, as depicted in the novel, are deeply interconnected with each family member's personal lifestyle, as they navigate their individual struggles and the influence of societal norms.
- Amidst the home-and-garden setting of the family's apartment, various forbidden items, such as books and gifts, serve as catalysts for challenging the family's established dynamics and relationships.
- As the story unfolds, "The Family" provides insightful commentary on the role of literature and entertainment in shaping personal identities and family dynamics, drawing parallels with classic works, such as Leo Tolstoy's "Anna Karenina."
