TL;DR
Set in the bleak, icy landscape of 1960s New England, ‘Eileen’ delves into the life of a peculiar young woman trapped in a dreary existence. Eileen Dunlop works as a secretary at a boys’ prison, caring for her alcoholic father at home, and grappling with a deep sense of alienation and self-loathing. Her life takes a sharp turn with the arrival of Rebecca Saint John, a glamorous and enigmatic counselor who sparks an unexpected friendship. As Eileen becomes increasingly entangled in Rebecca’s world, she finds herself drawn into a dangerous and thrilling plot that forces her to confront her darkest desires and the possibility of escaping her suffocating reality.
Table of contents
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Author & Writing Background
Ottessa Moshfegh is an American author known for her darkly comedic and often unsettling explorations of human nature and the underbelly of society. Her writing is characterized by its sharp wit, unflinching honesty, and complex characters. Moshfegh has received critical acclaim for her work, including the PEN/Hemingway Award for Debut Fiction and the Believer Book Award. ‘Eileen’ was shortlisted for the Man Booker Prize and established her as a prominent voice in contemporary literature.
Key Takeaways
A Lonely and Troubled Protagonist
Eileen is a deeply flawed and complex character who struggles with loneliness, self-hatred, and a sense of being trapped in her life. The novel delves into her inner thoughts and motivations, offering a raw and unflinching portrayal of her psychological state.
Bleak Setting and Atmosphere
The novel’s setting in a cold and desolate New England town during the 1960s creates a sense of isolation and despair that mirrors Eileen’s own emotional state. The stark descriptions of the landscape and the harsh winter weather contribute to the overall atmosphere of the book.
The Arrival of Rebecca Saint John
Rebecca’s arrival disrupts Eileen’s monotonous life and introduces an element of excitement and danger. Her enigmatic personality and manipulative nature both fascinate and repel Eileen, leading to a complex and volatile relationship.
Themes of Identity and Transformation
Eileen’s journey throughout the novel is one of self-discovery and transformation. She grapples with questions of identity, morality, and the possibility of escaping her past. The ending leaves the reader pondering the extent to which she has truly changed.
Dark Humor and Psychological Suspense
Moshfegh’s writing is infused with a dark and often unsettling humor that adds depth to the story. The novel also incorporates elements of psychological suspense, keeping the reader guessing about Eileen’s motives and the true nature of her relationship with Rebecca.
Exploration of Social Class and Gender Roles
The novel touches upon themes of social class and gender roles in 1960s America. Eileen’s experiences as a working-class woman in a male-dominated society contribute to her feelings of alienation and powerlessness.
Unreliable Narrator
Eileen’s perspective as the narrator is unreliable, as she is prone to self-deception and often presents a distorted view of events. This adds to the complexity of the story and forces the reader to question the truth of her account.
A Shocking and Unforgettable Climax
The novel builds towards a shocking and unexpected climax that forces Eileen to confront the consequences of her actions and make a life-altering decision. The ending is both disturbing and thought-provoking, leaving a lasting impression on the reader.
FAQ about Eileen
Is ‘Eileen’ based on a true story?
No, ‘Eileen’ is a work of fiction. However, the novel’s themes and setting draw inspiration from the author’s own experiences and observations of American society.
What is the significance of the title?
The title refers to the protagonist, Eileen Dunlop, and her journey of self-discovery and transformation throughout the novel.
What genre does ‘Eileen’ belong to?
‘Eileen’ is a complex and multifaceted novel that blends elements of literary fiction, psychological thriller, and dark comedy.
Eileen Quotes
- ”I was not myself. I was Eileen, but I was also the girl I might have been, and the girl I would never be."
- "We were all just animals, I thought, with our secrets and our desires, trying to survive in a world that didn’t care about us."
- "The past is never dead. It’s not even past.”