TL;DR
A darkly comic tale of a feminist leader and her polarizing son, exploring themes of sexual extremities, intolerance, and the power of storytelling.
What is The World According to Garp about
The World According to Garp, a novel by John Irving, tells the story of Jenny Fields, an unmarried nurse who becomes a feminist icon, and her son Garp, a writer living in the shadow of his mother's fame. Set against a backdrop of sexual violence and political fervor, the novel delves into themes of sexual intolerance, lunacy, and sorrow. With a touch of tragicomedy, it captures the moral complexities of life and the strength of narrative in shaping our experiences.
The World According to Garp 5 Key Takeaways
Jenny Fields' Arrest
The story begins with Jenny Fields, an unmarried nurse, wounding a man in a movie theater and getting arrested. This incident sets the tone for the exploration of sexual violence and feminist themes throughout the novel.
Birth of Garp
Jenny decides to become a single mother by conceiving a child with a dying soldier. Her son, Garp, grows up in her shadow, leading a life marked by his mother's fame and her strong feminist beliefs.
Garp's Writing Career
Garp becomes a writer, but his career is overshadowed by his mother's prominence as a feminist leader. His works reflect his complex views on life, sexuality, and family, echoing the book’s overarching themes.
Tragic Accident
Garp is driving home with his sons, Walt and Duncan, when they collide with a car occupied by his wife and her student. The accident results in Duncan losing an eye and Walt's death, a turning point that deepens the novel's tragic undertones.
Garp's Assassination
In the climax, Garp is assassinated by an extreme supporter of his mother's feminist movement. His death starkly underscores the novel’s themes of intolerance and the darker sides of ideological fervor.
Top The World According to Garp Quotes
- "We are all terminal cases."
- "In the world according to Garp, we are all terminal cases."
Who should read The World According to Garp?
This novel is ideal for readers interested in deeply layered narratives that tackle complex social issues with a blend of humor and tragedy. Fans of character-driven stories and those interested in feminist themes will find it particularly compelling.
The World According to Garp Best Reviews
- "He is more than popular. He is a Populist, determined to keep alive the Dickensian tradition that revels in colorful set pieces...and teaches moral lessons." — The New York Times
People also liked these summaries
The World According to Garp FAQs
What is the book The World According to Garp about?
The World According to Garp explores the lives of a famous feminist leader and her son, delving into themes of sexual extremities, intolerance, and the power of storytelling.
What is the message of The World According to Garp?
The main message is a reflection on the complexities of life and the power of storytelling.
Is The World According to Garp based on a true story?
Although not autobiographical, there are similarities between John Irving and the character Garp, such as their shared absence of a biological father.