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Warlight
304 pages, 2019
In Warlight, the reader is taken on a journey through a mysterious world of shadows and light. Starting in 1945 in London after World War II, it follows the story of two young siblings, who grow up to be orphans because their parents mysteriously disappear and are never found. In 1956, their caretaker leaves them, and they move to New York City.
The story then jumps to 1966 when Nathaniel, one of the siblings, starts to investigate his past by going to London and meeting with a man named The Moth. The Moth (provide) him with information about his family's past, but Nathaniel is suspicious and doesn't trust him fully. Through the investigation, he learns that his parents might have been spies and were murdered in front of him when he was just a baby, so he decided to write all his findings down in a manuscript called Warlight.
In Warlight, Michael Ondaatje explores the theme of family and the secrets that can lie within it. The book encourages readers to look into their own family histories and understand that everyone has a story to tell.
Ondaatje's book gives us a glimpse into the aftermath of World War II, showing how it affected individuals and families. It's a reminder to research and appreciate the sacrifices made by previous generations during times of conflict.
Warlight shows us how our memories can shape our present and future. The protagonist's journey to uncover his past is a call for us to dig into our own memories and see how they've influenced who we are today.
The book explores complex human relationships, especially between the protagonist and his mother. It's a nudge for us to examine our own relationships and understand the roles we play in other people's lives.
Ondaatje's unique storytelling style in Warlight is a lesson in itself. It encourages us to find our own voice and express our experiences in a way that resonates with others.
Quotes 3
Warlight by Michael Ondaatje is a novel that I could not put down. It's a captivating tale of post-war London.
Barack Obama - 44th U.S. PresidentWarlight is a quiet new masterpiece by Michael Ondaatje.
The Guardian - British NewspaperWarlight is a novel of shadow and illumination by an author who is a master of the evocative.
The New York Times - American Newspaper