Exploiting Social Media for a Mystery Novel

In her debut novel "Swallow the Ghost," Eugenie Montague delves into the complexities of storytelling in the age of social media. The narrative centers around a fictional novelist, Jeremy, who is crafting a literary crime novel influenced by tweets from various fictional accounts. This unique premise raises questions about the nature of creativity and the impact of digital platforms on literature. The novel is structured in three sections, with the first focusing on Jane Murphy, a young woman grappling with her own insecurities. Jane's character is intricately tied to the social media landscape, as she engages in creating tweets that embody the voices of characters from Jeremy's work. This interplay between reality and fiction highlights the challenges writers face when attempting to dramatize the intangible yet pervasive influence of social media. Montague introduces the concept of a "soulbonder," a term from young adult fandom that describes an individual who forms a deep emotional connection with a fictional character. This idea of cathexis—intense emotional investment—serves as a central theme in the novel, prompting readers to reflect on their own relationships with fictional narratives and characters. Overall, "Swallow the Ghost" presents a stylish and unconventional exploration of modern storytelling, inviting readers to navigate the blurred lines between reality and fiction in a world dominated by social media. Montague's work challenges traditional narrative forms while engaging with contemporary cultural phenomena.