(Aug 26, 2024)
This is a prime example of expectations vs. reality. The great focal point of the now heavily plundered Frankenstein storyline is, of course, the monster. He is what makes Shelley’s novel so compelling, and since he is the weight-bearing truss for the whole of her story, the fact that he is an underutilized character affects one’s enjoyment/investment in the narrative entire. Your reviewer was reminded many times of the singular importance of “the wretch,” as whenever we are inhabiting Dr. Frankenstein’s perspective without the monster near, he (or rather Shelley) is tirelessly retreading the same couple of points: a) my life is terrible, how could I have done this, b) I must get revenge for my terrible life, c) I am temporarily feeling not so terrible, d) I fear my life will get even more terrible. While one could argue for the “realism” of Frankenstein’s recursive obsessions, this is simply not the mode her gothic story works best in. Not only is the monster the most philosophically/narratively compelling character, but he would also have been a much more effective partial narrator. But, the monster is a partial narrator, you say. Ok, yes. Fair. This is where I suggest something else. We get more of, and also a more sympathetic, monster. One could argue that the monster is already plenty relatable, but if the novel wallowed less in how the monster educated himself and more what he felt (with maybe some more soliloquizing, since those were the best parts), with more postponement as to his turn to revenge. I think, frankly, that the monster is held back from being more of a hero, and the mores of Shelley’s time demand a timely justice dealt to the creature (even if she does sneak some edgewise shots at the doctor himself). I understand that it’s (sort of) uncouth to suggest rewrites for an author, but this is one of the few times I’ve finished a book and knew instantly what was lacking for me. I’m not arguing that these changes would work for everybody, but only that they would likely satisfy my grievances, since I found the creature so suggestive of a more fulfilling psyche. Those parts where he is betrayed by humanity are, of course, the most remembered for a reason.
4.0/10