38 pages • 1 hour read
Written On The Body
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Book Brief
190
Novel • Fiction
England • 1990s
1992
Adult
18+ years
Super Short Summary
Written on the Body by Jeanette Winterson follows an anonymous narrator recounting a passionate love affair with Louise Rosenthal, a married woman whose husband, Elgin, complicates their relationship by using her leukemia diagnosis to manipulate her return. The narrator's decision to leave Louise, believing it's for her well-being, leads to heartache and self-discovery, ending with a hopeful reunion. The narrative includes themes of infidelity and illness.
Melancholic
Emotional
Contemplative
Bittersweet
Reviews & Readership
31,922 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Review Roundup
Jeanette Winterson’s Written On The Body is acclaimed for its lyrical prose, rich metaphors, and evocative exploration of love and identity. However, some critics find its gender ambiguity and abstract narrative style challenging. Overall, the novel is praised for its emotional depth and innovative storytelling, but its unconventional elements may not appeal to all readers.
Who Should Read Written On The Body?
Readers who enjoy intimate, lyrical explorations of love and identity, much like in Oranges Are Not the Only Fruit by Jeanette Winterson or The Color Purple by Alice Walker, will be captivated by Written On The Body. This novel appeals to those interested in poetic prose and complex emotional narratives.
31,922 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Louise Rosenthal
Louise Rosenthal
An Australian art historian known for her beauty and the narrator's romantic interest, who is married to Elgin Rosenthal and battles a serious illness while navigating her shifting relationships.
Dr. Elgin Rosenthal
Dr. Elgin Rosenthal
A medical researcher and Louise's husband, who comes from a religious background and is focused on oncological pharmaceutical pursuits, attempting to maintain control over Louise's treatment and life choices.
Gail Right
Gail Right
The owner of a Yorkshire wine bar, she serves as the narrator's employer and offers pragmatic advice and emotional support while embracing her own unfulfilled feelings toward the narrator.
Jacqueline
Jacqueline
A young zoo worker and the narrator's former domestic partner, whose volatile reaction to the narrator's affair indicates her deep emotional investment in their relationship.
190
Novel • Fiction
England • 1990s
1992
Adult
18+ years
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