Perestroika in Paris: A Tale of Freedom and Friendship
In her latest novel, Perestroika in Paris, Pulitzer Prize-winning author Jane Smiley explores the themes of freedom and friendship through the eyes of a horse named Paras and his animal friends. Set in the heart of Paris, the story follows Paras as he embarks on a journey to discover the true meaning of freedom.
The Inspiration Behind Perestroika in Paris
Jane Smiley’s inspiration for writing Perestroika in Paris was rooted in her own experiences with horses. As an avid equestrian, Smiley has always been fascinated by the unique bond that exists between humans and horses. In an interview with NPR, she said that horses have been “an important part” of her life since childhood.
The Storyline
The novel starts when Paras escapes from his stable and finds himself wandering around Paris. He soon meets Frida, a dog who takes him under her wing and introduces him to a community of other animals living freely in the city. Together, they explore the city’s landmarks and discover what it means to be truly free.
As they navigate their way through the streets, they encounter other animals with different personalities; Raoul is a rat who is always looking for food while Blanche is a high-spirited cat who loves adventure. As they become more familiar with each other’s personalities, it becomes apparent that their differences are what bring them closer together.
The Themes Explored
Perestroika in Paris explores several themes such as freedom, friendship, individuality, belongingness, and self-discovery. The author uses the animal characters to give readers a fresh perspective on these themes.
For instance, Paras learns about freedom by observing how Frida lives her life without any boundaries, rules, or restrictions. He also discovers the importance of friendship by forming a bond with Frida and the other animals.
The Significance of the Title
The title of the novel, Perestroika in Paris, is a nod to Mikhail Gorbachev’s political reforms in the Soviet Union during the late 1980s. The word “perestroika” means “restructuring” or “rebuilding,” which is exactly what Paras experiences as he explores the city of Paris and discovers his true identity.
The Takeaway Message
Perestroika in Paris is a heartwarming tale that reminds readers about the importance of freedom, individuality, and friendship. It showcases how people from different walks of life can come together and form meaningful connections based on their shared experiences and values.
In conclusion, Jane Smiley’s Perestroika in Paris is a must-read for anyone who loves animals and appreciates good storytelling. The novel is not only an entertaining read but also an insightful commentary on what it means to be truly free.
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