The song of Achilles - book review

Hi!

I read "the song of Achilles" by Madeline Miller this month here's what I thought of it!

Ok, so the fact that the story of Achilles and Patroclus is quite a well-known one made me a little reluctant to read this book. My reservations came from the fear of the ending being somewhat stripped of its element of surprise, therefore leading it to be disappointing and underwhelming.

However, Madeline Miller has written this story in such a way that it felt completely unknown to me, despite having seen different films and heard different stories about these two characters.

I really like the fact that in this book, Madeline Miller has chosen to write it from Patroclus’ perspective –this is what makes the book so enjoyable in my opinion. It allows the storyline to distance itself from the war and fighting and focus on the love story and the feelings and sentiments that Patroclus deals with during Achille’s quest for fame.

I very much enjoyed the lyrical writing of this book; it contains many heart-warming and poignant quotes that I’m sure will be stuck in my mind for a long while.

However, it must be noted that many people criticise the fact that Patroclus and Achilles’ relationship is very one-dimensional. I only partially agree with this, as much as I enjoyed this book and the way that it was written, I do acknowledge that the relationship between the two main characters could have been more focused on their true feelings for each other.

I would have loved, for example if we could have had more of an insight on the real reasons that Patroclus fell for Achilles, we seem to focus enormously on his physical attributes and the fact that he is a demigod and have very limited insight on the real reasons that they fell in love.

Anyway, for me, this was a great read, I would definitely suggest it if you’re looking for a heart wrenching, tragic love story.

It’s an 8,5/10 for me! 😊

Lily Dale, 28/09/2022