#31 – Misery

Plot

Novelist Paul Sheldon has plans to make the difficult transition from writing historical romances featuring heroine Misery Chastain to publishing literary fiction. Annie Wilkes, Sheldon’s number one fan, rescues the author from the scene of a car accident. The former nurse takes care of him in her remote house but becomes irate when she discovers that the author has killed Misery off in his latest book. Annie keeps Sheldon prisoner while forcing him to write a book that brings Misery back to life. 

Review

As I mentioned previously, I do my best to not have any idea what a book or a movie or a tv show is about before I consume it. I’ve found that not having any expectations on where I think the story should be headed has allowed me to experience art with a clearer and more open mind.

Unfortunately, there are times where this can be unavoidable. Misery falls into this category as – despite never watching the movie starring Kathy Bates – I knew the general premise prior to reading the book. But man, do I wish I had a blank canvas because Misery is a great read. The sheer amount of psychological warfare that was being exhibited by Annie was extraordinary.

Knowing the premise is one thing, but not having a clue how everything was executed was another. King had his audience in mind – not only because of the centered relationship between fan and artist, but also because Misery puts you right into Paul’s shoes – and what helpless soles they are.

It’s hard not to read Misery and ask yourself what King was really trying to say to his Constant Readers. He published Misery soon after The Eyes of The Dragon (yet to be named on this list) and received some backlash from his supporters because it was so much different than his previous works. As for me – I’m here because King is a great writer – regardless of genre, and Misery is an excellent example of that.

Details

Pages: 368

Dates Read: October – November 2020

Quote: “I am your number one fan.”

Best Part: It’s difficult to look at a riding lawnmower the same way after reading Misery.

Hint for #30: My dog Lucy and I would often go on these when she was younger. Now, she’s tired after a lap around the neighborhood.

 

Until next time, peace be the journey.