Rat 🛸
I mean what can I say? This is possibly my favourite book, I love Ursula's writing, the rhythm of it, the world-building, the insight into politics, patriotism, duality.
By far the standout is the 1/3 of the book spent with Genly and Estraven journeying together. The relationship and intimacy that builds between them is one of my favourite relationships in any book I've read - the way that Estraven is devoted to his cause and in that way becomes devoted to Genly. The way that Genly describes the journey on the ice as some kind of joy - through the horror of the cold and starvation he feels such purpose and connection. Makes me crazy.
Also really meaningful to me in terms of what patriotism is, and could be. I love the quote about loving one's country so much. It's so reflective of how I feel about the UK; in love with the landscape, with so many of the people, but that love isn't defined by borders and shut out when you cross that line. I hate the government, it's history of empire and the rising number of white supremacists with seats in parliament, but I always wish the best for the people of my country.
Anyway Genly x Estraven 4eva, off to read fanfic now.
I mean what can I say? This is possibly my favourite book, I love Ursula's writing, the rhythm of it, the world-building, the insight into politics, patriotism, duality.
By far the standout is the 1/3 of the book spent with Genly and Estraven journeying together. The relationship and intimacy that builds between them is one of my favourite relationships in any book I've read - the way that Estraven is devoted to his cause and in that way becomes devoted to Genly. The way that Genly describes the journey on the ice as some kind of joy - through the horror of the cold and starvation he feels such purpose and connection. Makes me crazy.
Also really meaningful to me in terms of what patriotism is, and could be. I love the quote about loving one's country so much. It's so reflective of how I feel about the UK; in love with the landscape, with so many of the people, but that love isn't defined by borders and shut out when you cross that line. I hate the government, it's history of empire and the rising number of white supremacists with seats in parliament, but I always wish the best for the people of my country.
Anyway Genly x Estraven 4eva, off to read fanfic now.