ASYMMETRY

This morning I finished Lisa Halliday's debut novel Asymmetry. This was in fact my favorite book that I read in 2018 because it highlights the power of fiction to transport the reader and author to wholly different worlds from those in which they normally inhabit.

The novel starts out describing a relationship between an older, accomplished writer who seems to be modeled after Philip Roth and a young editor who embarks on a relationship with him. That Halliday once was an editor and was involved in a romantic relationship makes the first section of the book more of a confession than a departure. However, Asymmetry reaches far beyond the author's comfort zone, and in the latter sections, the novel becomes ostensibly incongruous. This is because the subject matter turns to the struggles of Iraqi-Americans and those who are collateral damage in our incessant "wars on terror" and the end of the line for a literary lion.

That Halliday who grew up in rural Massachusetts from a blue collar background was still able to capture stories of those who are often forgotten in our daily lives, news broadcast, and books and films is truly remarkable. How is that possible you might ask? I believe it begins with a curiosity about whom other people are and what their lives are like. In a word, it is empathy that makes Asymmetry so powerful, especially since this is an emotion that is in such short supply in our lives and world today.

I will not reveal more about Asymmetry, but trust me and check this book out! It will not disappoint, and if questions remain, you can check out these spoiler reviews here and here or just ask me!