Either/Or

Either/Or follows the introspective journey of Selin, a young woman in her second year at Harvard, as she seeks to navigate the complexities of adulthood and self-identity. After a transformative summer, she finds herself in a world where the lines between reality and literature blur, prompting her to question the narratives that shape her life.

The Plot

As Selin reflects on her experiences, she grapples with her relationships, the expectations placed upon her, and the portrayal of women in literature. Her quest for an engaging life leads her to explore various facets of existence, from intellectual pursuits to romantic entanglements. Through her travels abroad, Selin encounters a tapestry of cultures and ideas, each contributing to her understanding of herself and her place in the world.

Themes

• Identity and Self-Discovery: Selin's journey is marked by her efforts to define who she is beyond societal expectations.
• Literature and Reality: The novel delves into how literature influences perceptions of life and personal choices.
• Relationships: Selin's interactions highlight the intricacies of friendship, love, and the search for connection.

“Life is not a novel, but it can be as confusing and layered as one.”

Readers who appreciated Elif Batuman's previous work, The Idiot, will find familiar themes of introspection and the pursuit of meaning. Either/Or offers a rich exploration of the trials of youth, making it a compelling addition to contemporary literature.