TL;DR
In 'The Binding' by Bridget Collins, books serve as vessels for painful memories, allowing individuals to erase their past traumas. Emmett Farmer, a young apprentice, discovers love and secrets in a world filled with superstition and mystery.
What is The Binding about
'The Binding' is set in an alternate universe reminiscent of 19th-century England, where books are feared as they contain people's memories. The story follows Emmett Farmer, who is summoned to become an apprentice to a bookbinder after experiencing a mental collapse. In this unique world, the act of binding allows individuals to rid themselves of painful memories, raising questions about identity and the past. As Emmett learns the craft, he grapples with the implications of erasing memories while forming a deep connection with Lucian Darnay, a mysterious visitor. The narrative combines elements of romance and folk magic, exploring themes of memory, love, and the human experience.
The Binding 8 Key Takeaways
Emmett Farmer receives a letter summoning him to become a bookbinder's apprentice.
Emmett, previously working on a farm, must leave his family behind to begin his apprenticeship, a decision fraught with fear and superstition from his community.
Emmett learns the art of bookbinding while dealing with his own trauma.
As he engages in marbling and gilding, Emmett finds solace in his work, gradually recovering from his past mental collapse.
The forbidden locked room piques Emmett's curiosity.
Despite the warnings, Emmett's intrigue about the inner sanctum where memories are stored grows, setting the stage for his desire to uncover secrets.
Lucian Darnay's arrival complicates Emmett's journey.
Lucian brings a connection that challenges Emmett's understanding of memory and the nature of binding, introducing romance into a world steeped in mystery.
Emmett confronts the implications of erasing memories.
The moral and emotional weight of binding memories becomes a central conflict, forcing Emmett to consider what it means to forget and the costs of doing so.
The climax unveils hidden secrets about the binders.
As tensions rise, revelations about the binders' practices and the true nature of memory binding come to light, leading to a gripping conclusion.
Emmett's journey leads to self-discovery and acceptance.
Ultimately, through love and loss, Emmett learns to embrace his past, finding strength in the memories he once wished to erase.
The resolution hints at a new understanding of memory.
By the end, the relationship between Emmett and Lucian, against the backdrop of a superstitious world, prompts readers to reflect on the value of remembering.
Top The Binding Quotes
- "Books are dangerous things; they can hold our memories and our lives, binding us to what we might wish to forget."
- "What if memory was a thing you could physically hold and choose to let go of?"
- "Love, like memory, is a tapestry we weave with threads of joy and sorrow."
Who should read The Binding?
'The Binding' is ideal for readers who enjoy historical fiction blended with fantasy, romance, and thought-provoking themes. It appeals to those interested in how memories shape identity and the complexities of love in a world filled with superstition, offering both emotional depth and an enchanting narrative.
The Binding Best Reviews
- "A beautifully crafted tale of love and memory that strikes a chord in the heart. Collins has an extraordinary gift for weaving magical realism with human emotion." - The Guardian
- "The Binding is a mesmerizing debut that captivates with its unique premise and exquisite prose. It's a haunting exploration of the power of memory and love." - Kirkus Reviews
- "Bridget Collins creates a world that is both enchanting and unsettling, drawing readers into a rich tapestry of characters and emotions." - BookPage
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The Binding FAQs
Is 'The Binding' based on true events?
While 'The Binding' features fictional characters, it is based on historical research, particularly regarding the practices and cultural attitudes towards memory and books in the 19th century.
What genre does 'The Binding' belong to?
The Binding is primarily classified as a fantasy romance, intertwining elements of historical fiction and magical realism.
What themes are explored in 'The Binding'?
The novel delves into themes of memory, love, identity, and the moral complexities surrounding the erasure of painful past experiences.