logo
pagesback-cover
332
Reddit meter
all mentions

The Transit of Venus

352 pages, 1990

fiction

fiction

1382 books
Takeaways
Description

The story of Caro and Grace is a love story. Ted Tice, a young scientist, loves Caro. But Caro does not return his love for her. She loves another man who is married to another woman. Ted is heartbroken when he finds this out. He still loves Caro and wants her to be happy, even though she does not love him back. The years pass by slowly for Ted, and he does not give up on his love for Caro. Grace is an innocent character in this story; she comes from Australia to England searching for a better life. She meets a man named Henry Enfield who has no interest in her but asks her to marry him anyway because she reminds him of someone close to him who has died recently. They get married and have two daughters together, but they do not feel any passion between them, and they never seem to grow closer as time goes by. Henry starts having an affair with another woman, which causes his wife a lot of pain and suffering as well as confusion because she cannot understand why he would do this to their family; what caused him to fall out of love with her?

Exploring Complex Relationships

The Transit of Venus by Shirley Hazzard takes us on a journey through the intricate web of human relationships. It's a deep exploration of love, betrayal, and the ties that bind us. You'll find yourself engrossed in the lives of the characters, and may even see reflections of your own relationships.

Understanding the Human Condition

Hazzard's book gives us a profound look into the human condition. It's not just about the characters' relationships, but also their individual journeys. You'll see their struggles, their triumphs, and their growth. It's a reminder that we're all human, and we all have our own stories to tell.

The Power of Prose

One of the standout features of The Transit of Venus is Hazzard's beautiful prose. She has a way with words that is both poetic and powerful. You'll find yourself swept away by her descriptions and the emotions they evoke. It's a great example of how words can paint a picture and tell a story.

Historical and Cultural Insights

Set in the mid-20th century, the book offers a glimpse into the social and cultural norms of the time. It's a fascinating look into the past, and you'll find yourself immersed in the world Hazzard has created. It's a great way to learn about history while enjoying a compelling story.

Life's Unexpected Twists and Turns

The Transit of Venus reminds us that life is full of surprises. Just when you think you know where the story is going, Hazzard throws in a twist that leaves you reeling. It's a reminder to expect the unexpected, both in books and in life.

Quotes 4

Shirley Hazzard's 'The Transit of Venus' is a masterpiece, an astonishingly exquisite portrayal of love and loss.

Michael CunninghamMichael Cunningham - Pulitzer-winning novelist

Hazzard's 'The Transit of Venus' is a novel of grandeur, a masterwork of the heart and mind. It is as precise and critical as it is stirring.

Joan DidionJoan Didion - American essayist

The Transit of Venus' is a marvel, a novel of ideas that also breaks your heart.

Jhumpa LahiriJhumpa Lahiri - Pulitzer-winning author

Shirley Hazzard's 'The Transit of Venus' is a novel of such depth, of such subtlety, of such passionate honesty, that it will stay with you for a lifetime.

Zadie SmithZadie Smith - British novelist
Michael CunninghamJoan DidionJhumpa LahiriZadie Smith

Recommendations

1
Sam Altman

Sam Altman

entrepreneurtechnologyventure capitalistauthor

The Transit of Venus found in libraries

1
372 books

Best History Books

Learn about the history of your nation and the entire world with the Best History Books you can find.