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David Mazzucchelli

Asterios Polyp

"Asterios Polyp" by David Mazzucchelli is a Pulitzer Prize-finalist graphic novel that explores the life and interior world of its protagonist, a middle-aged architect and professor named Asterios Polyp. The story is non-linear, and it jumps back and forth in time, revealing different stages of Asterios' life, from his childhood to his present. The narrative is structured around a series of dualities, such as reason versus emotion, order versus chaos, and masculinity versus femininity. These dualities are reflected in the visual style of the book, which combines traditional comic book art with abstract illustrations and diagrams. The use of color is also significant, with each character having their own color scheme, which changes depending on their emotional state. Asterios is a complex and flawed character who has spent his life trying to impose order on the world around him. However, his rigid worldview is challenged when a fire destroys his apartment, and he is forced to leave behind his old life and start anew. The story follows Asterios as he embarks on a journey of self-discovery, meeting new people and encountering new experiences that challenge his preconceptions and force him to reevaluate his beliefs. One of the strengths of "Asterios Polyp" is its exploration of themes such as identity, relationships, and the nature of reality. The book raises questions about the extent to which our perceptions of the world are shaped by our own beliefs and experiences. It also challenges the notion of a single, objective reality, suggesting instead that there are many different ways of seeing and experiencing the world. Overall, "Asterios Polyp" is a thought-provoking and visually stunning graphic novel that will appeal to fans of literary fiction as well as comic book art. Its complex narrative and rich symbolism make it a rewarding read for those willing to engage with its themes and ideas...