The Bridges of Madison County
Is this just another romance novel? Yes and no.
Yes: Set in 1960s, it is a tale of a 52-year old photographer and a lonely farm wife. They meet, they are attracted to each other, they spend some time together, and then they decide to not elope for the sake of the woman’s family. It is beautifully told by Robert James Waller. The author has either lived every moment of Kincaid and Francesca’s life or he really is a brilliant story teller.
No: It is not just another romance novel. In fact, it is not a romance novel at all, it is a test of whether you are a romantic or a cynic. What starts as a thrilling fling between a bored wife and an adventurer reaches a completely different level when emotions are realized. This is a haunting tale about magic called love. And no, the word does not stand for the need-based, insecurity-ridden, selfish emotion we experience today!
Unlike other good romances that I’ve read, innocence is not the selling point here. Maturity and complete knowledge of one’s feelings is. The book has no mystery, no twists and turns, no deep secrets, no great revelations, it just is a smooth flowing tale of poignant emotions.
Weller’s writing is witty and affecting, full of magical moments that reach out and grab the hopeless romantic in readers. The book both glorifies and justifies adultery, which has led to serious criticism from most reviewers. However, to me this is all about believing. If one wants to believe in love that strong, one would enjoy the experience called The Bridges of Madison County.
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I think it’s a crap book.
Comment by Kunal — 9/11/2005 @ 6:48 pm
I notice you did not say it was boring. You said it is crap. Goes to prove my point. The book evokes strong emotions. Some think that what is described in the book does not/cannot exist. Fair enough. =)
Comment by anupma — 9/11/2005 @ 9:21 pm
The book is too short to be boring.
Comment by Kunal — 9/18/2005 @ 6:41 pm
Kunal is just sore because he/she hasn’t written anything worth reading—Waller has…..case closed……….
Comment by Bill — 7/5/2006 @ 10:36 pm