Couples navigate love and feminism in contemporary Paris
- The novel 'Scaffolding' by Lauren Elkin is set in contemporary Paris and features a polyamorous cast, primarily narrated by Anna, a 39-year-old psychoanalyst.
- As Anna navigates her life, she deals with personal challenges, including renovations in her apartment and the complexities of her relationships, while also grappling with psychoanalytic theories.
- The intertwining narratives reflect feminist themes and the struggles against male violence, culminating in a therapeutic exploration of the characters' desires and conflicts.
Lauren Elkin's debut novel, set in the vibrant backdrop of contemporary Paris, follows Anna, a 39-year-old psychoanalyst who is on leave from her job. As she settles into a new apartment with her boyfriend Jonathan, she confronts the chaos of renovations and the noise of construction outside her windows, which metaphorically mirrors her internal struggles. The narrative unfolds through Anna's reflections and interactions, revealing her passion for feminist causes and her quest for understanding amidst the complexities of her life. The story intricately weaves in psychoanalytic concepts, particularly those of Sigmund Freud and Jacques Lacan, as Anna grapples with the dense theories that influence her thoughts and relationships. The characters around her, including Florence and her husband Henry, introduce additional layers of conflict, particularly regarding family planning and personal desires. Their struggles highlight the broader themes of love, commitment, and the societal pressures that accompany them. As the narrative shifts between different time periods and perspectives, it challenges readers to piece together the characters' journeys. The feminist undertones are evident as Anna and her allies engage in activism against male violence, showcasing the urgency of their cause. The novel ultimately serves as a therapeutic exploration of the characters' desires, misdeeds, and the evolving landscape of love in a modern context. Through its rich tapestry of relationships and intellectual discourse, 'Scaffolding' offers a poignant reflection on the intersection of personal and societal challenges, making it a compelling read for those interested in contemporary issues of love and feminism.