TL;DR
The Green Mile narrates the story of death row supervisor Paul Edgecombe and his supernatural encounter with inmate John Coffey, revealing themes of justice, morality, and the extraordinary.
What is The Green Mile about
The Green Mile, a serial novel by Stephen King, takes readers to Cold Mountain Penitentiary's E Block during the Great Depression. The story follows prison guard Paul Edgecombe, who oversees condemned inmates walking the 'Green Mile' to their execution. The plot revolves around John Coffey, a giant of a man with a childlike mind, convicted of a brutal crime. Through Coffey's supernatural abilities, Edgecombe discovers profound truths that challenge his beliefs about justice and humanity. The novel combines elements of suspense, drama, and magical realism to explore deep moral questions.
The Green Mile 7 Key Takeaways
Introduction to E Block
Cold Mountain Penitentiary's E Block houses death row inmates. Paul Edgecombe, the head guard, oversees the 'Green Mile,' a path leading to the electric chair.
John Coffey's Arrival
John Coffey, a massive and gentle man with extraordinary healing powers, arrives at E Block, convicted of murdering two young sisters.
Supernatural Abilities
Coffey's miraculous healing of Edgecombe's urinary infection and a fellow inmate's pet mouse reveals his inexplicable powers.
The Dilemma
Edgecombe and other guards start doubting Coffey's guilt and face a moral struggle over executing a possibly innocent man.
Climax: Coffey's True Nature
Coffey heals the warden's wife, demonstrating his supernatural empathy and reinforcing doubts about his guilt.
Execution and Revelation
Despite their efforts, Coffey is executed. Before his death, he reveals his desire to end his painful existence, and Edgecombe is left to grapple with the moral implications.
Conclusion and Reflection
Years later, an elderly Edgecombe reflects on Coffey's impact, questioning the nature of justice, mercy, and the supernatural. He realizes the profound influence Coffey had on his life and beliefs.
Top The Green Mile Quotes
- 'We each owe a death, there are no exceptions, I know that, but sometimes, oh God, the Green Mile is so long.'
- 'I'm tired, boss. Tired of bein' on the road, lonely as a sparrow in the rain.'
- 'He kill them with they love. They love for each other. You see how it was? It was love that killed them.'
Who should read The Green Mile?
The Green Mile is ideal for mature readers interested in thought-provoking narratives that combine supernatural elements with deep moral questions. Fans of Stephen King's work and those who enjoy stories about justice, redemption, and the human condition will find this book compelling and insightful.
The Green Mile Best Reviews
- 'A literary event...a spellbinding tale.' - The New York Times Book Review
- 'A wonderful story set against the backdrop of a penitentiary and the Great Depression. King masterfully blends supernatural elements with profound insights into human nature.' - Publishers Weekly
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The Green Mile FAQs
Is The Green Mile book appropriate?
The Green Mile is best suited for mature readers, typically 16 and up, due to its heavy themes, including violence and the moral complexities surrounding capital punishment.
What is The Green Mile book about?
The Green Mile tells the story of Paul Edgecombe, a death row supervisor, and his encounter with John Coffey, an inmate with mysterious healing abilities, exploring themes of justice and supernatural phenomena.
What Stephen King novel is The Green Mile based on?
The Green Mile is not based on another novel; it is an original work by Stephen King, published in 1996 as a serialized novel before being compiled into a single volume.