JessicaRulestheUniverse.com

Photo: The Extreme Ultraviolet Sun from NASA’s Astronomy Picture of the Day Archive.

This is the secret of Ian McEwan’s success: He’s playing us. In his novels he manipulates us into thinking we know what’s going on, only to turn on the lights and reveal something else. Using techniques out of horror stories and thrillers he tweaks our nerves until the tension becomes unbearable—try putting that book down then. He withholds vital information only to spring it on us at the very last minute—unforgivable in other authors, but in McEwan another demonstration of his narrative skills.

These manipulations are executed in prose so gorgeous it makes you weep. When all is revealed, your reaction should be “How dare you”, but what comes out is “Wow.” Thank you for fooling us. Consider his finest work, Atonement, whose last page reveals a secret that turns the world upside down. Can he do that, is that kosher? And you may protest at this deceit, but you know you wanted it. These lovely people who have been through so much—you wanted them to be happy. You agreed to be played.

Review of Solar in Emotional Weather Report, today in the Star.