Plot Summary

The Enigma of Arrival

V.S. Naipaul
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The Enigma of Arrival

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 1987

Book Brief

V.S. Naipaul

The Enigma of Arrival

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 1987
Book Details
Pages

387

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Wiltshire, England • 1980s

Publication Year

1987

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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Super Short Summary

The Enigma of Arrival by V.S. Naipaul follows a young Trinidadian writer who moves to Wiltshire, England. The novel, rich with semi-autobiographical elements, captures his observations and reflections on his new environment and the people around him. Through detailed meditations on his surroundings and personal narratives, the narrator explores themes of home, change, and identity. Sensitive topics include domestic violence and death.

Contemplative

Melancholic

Mysterious

Bittersweet

Reviews & Readership

3.9

2,093 ratings

61%

Loved it

26%

Mixed feelings

13%

Not a fan

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Review Roundup

V.S. Naipaul's The Enigma of Arrival is lauded for its introspective narrative and evocative prose, painting a poignant picture of displacement and self-discovery. Critics praise its philosophical depth and compelling exploration of the human condition. However, some find its slow pace and detailed descriptions overly tedious. Overall, it is a reflective and thought-provoking read.

Who should read this

Who Should Read The Enigma of Arrival?

A reader who relishes introspective narratives and philosophical musings on identity and belonging would find The Enigma of Arrival by V.S. Naipaul compelling. Similar to fans of Virginia Woolf's To the Lighthouse and Kazuo Ishiguro's The Remains of the Day, this book appeals to those who appreciate richly detailed, reflective prose.

3.9

2,093 ratings

61%

Loved it

26%

Mixed feelings

13%

Not a fan

Book Details
Pages

387

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Wiltshire, England • 1980s

Publication Year

1987

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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