Book #13: Wide Sargasso Sea

The book: Wide Sargasso Sea, by Jean Rhys

What is this book about: It is the prequel to Jane Eyre, the tale of Mr. Rochester's first wife, the madwoman.

Why did I read this book: Because I read Jane Eyre earlier this year, and this book frequently shows up on those lists of best books of all time.

What did I think of this book: It was a beautiful book--dreamy scenes that flow into each other that tell a sad story of heartbreak and fear.

What was my favorite part of this book: Please don't sue me, estate of Jean Rhys, but I want to use a quote for this:

'Why did you make me want to live? Why did you do that to me?'

'Because I wished it. Isn't that enough?'

'Yes, it is enough. But if one day you didn't wish it. What should I do then? Suppose you took this happiness away when I wasn't looking...'

'And lose my own? Who'd be so foolish?'

'I am not used to happiness,' she said. 'It makes me afraid.'

'Never be afraid. Or if you are tell no one.'

'I understand. But trying does not help me.'

'What would?' She did not answer that, then one night whispered, 'If I could die. Now, when I am happy. Would you do that? You wouldn't have to kill me. Say die and I will die. You don't believe me? Then try, try, say die and watch me die.'

'Die then! Die!' I watched her die many times. In my way, not hers. In sunlight, in shadow, by moonlight, by candlelight. In the long afternoons when the house was empty. Only the sun was there to keep us company. We shut him out.

What did I learn from this book: I don't know what I learned, really, because reading the Wikipedia entry, I found out I missed the whole postcolonial theme. But I think it's important to remember that behind the crazy people is likely a sad story, and circumstances beyond their control. I need to remember that when the crazy people get on the bus.

What grade do I give this book: B-