38 pages 1 hour read

Jeanette Winterson

Written On The Body

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 1992

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Before You Read

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Super Short Summary

Written on the Body by Jeanette Winterson follows an anonymous narrator recounting a passionate love affair with Louise Rosenthal, a married woman whose husband, Elgin, complicates their relationship by using her leukemia diagnosis to manipulate her return. The narrator's decision to leave Louise, believing it's for her well-being, leads to heartache and self-discovery, ending with a hopeful reunion. The narrative includes themes of infidelity and illness.

Reviews & Readership

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Review Roundup

Jeanette Winterson’s Written On The Body is acclaimed for its lyrical prose, rich metaphors, and evocative exploration of love and identity. However, some critics find its gender ambiguity and abstract narrative style challenging. Overall, the novel is praised for its emotional depth and innovative storytelling, but its unconventional elements may not appeal to all readers.

Who should read this

Who Should Read Written On The Body?

Readers who enjoy intimate, lyrical explorations of love and identity, much like in Oranges Are Not the Only Fruit by Jeanette Winterson or The Color Purple by Alice Walker, will be captivated by Written On The Body. This novel appeals to those interested in poetic prose and complex emotional narratives.

RecommendedReading Age

18+years

Book Details

Genre

Romance

Modern Classic Fiction

Themes

Emotions/Behavior: Love

Relationships: Marriage

Topics

Gender / Feminism

LGBTQ