Unflinching and Profound: A Review of ‘A Little Life’ by Hanya Yanagihara
Hanya Yanagihara’s novel, “A Little Life,” is a masterclass in exploring the profundities of human existence, interweaving themes of love, trauma, friendship, and the enduring struggle for identity in a complex world.
The narrative primarily follows four friends — Jude, Willem, JB, and Malcolm — over the span of several decades, from their college years to late adulthood in New York City. Despite the four-way bond, it is Jude, a man shrouded in painful mystery, who becomes the gravitational center of the narrative.
Yanagihara’s portrayal of these characters is extraordinarily vivid. She breathes life into each individual, giving them depth and complexity that make them feel startlingly real. They each bear distinct identities, varied in their backgrounds, sexualities, ambitions, and imperfections, and it’s through their unique lenses that Yanagihara dissects the multifaceted aspects of human life.
The most impressive element of “A Little Life” is Yanagihara’s unflinching examination of trauma. Jude’s life is marred by unimaginable suffering, and his ensuing struggle with self-worth and his lingering trauma makes for an intense, heartbreaking narrative. Yet, it’s through this darkness that Yanagihara manages to brilliantly showcase the redemptive power of love and friendship, even when faced with the deepest of personal tragedies.
Yanagihara’s writing style is eloquent and immersive. Her long, flowing sentences, rich with description, take readers on an emotional roller coaster that doesn’t let go even after the final page. However, the same immersive detail can also be overwhelming, as the graphic depiction of Jude’s traumas could be distressing for some readers.
“A Little Life” is undeniably heavy in its themes. It demands emotional investment from its readers and doesn’t offer easy resolution or soothing consolation. However, its relentless exploration of human resilience, the depth of its characters, and its insightful commentary on love, friendship, and trauma make it an unforgettable reading experience.
In conclusion, “A Little Life” by Hanya Yanagihara is a profound and deeply affecting novel that resonates long after one has finished reading. While it’s not for the faint-hearted, those who are willing to venture into its depth will be rewarded with a narrative that’s as touching as it is thought-provoking.
