Review of "Autobiography of Red"

[Grace]

Anne Carson delivers a captivating "novel in verse" in a rare form of poetry. I found the form to be interesting and unique. This exotic way of presenting her poem related to the abstract character, Geryon. I appreciated the form because it helped me, as a reader, understand the tone of the story and search for a deeper meaning behind certain words. I thought the enjambment used throughout the story was done well because the words left at the end of the line always seemed to hold strong value. This story was inspired from a Greek mythological tale. In this myth, the character Geryon is red and has multiple legs and arms and wings. Carson's take on Geryon was brilliant in the way that she used metaphorical language. Geryon saw himself as a monster, especially when he was feeling vulnerable or lesser than someone else. I particularly enjoyed Geryon's fascination with photography and his camera. I liked the idea that this was his chance to exit the world he lives in and express himself through art. Geryon is clearly an artist from the beginning of the story when he is creating his "autobiography" as a sculpture made of a tomato and cigarettes. From that moment on, I was never disappointed with the strange detail and descriptions of the novel. There were many dark scenes that made me sympathize with Geryon. This story shows how his innocence is betrayed by his brother's actions and how growing into adolescence has helped Geryon grow into the person he wants to be. The events of Geryon's life, even the small ones like his Tuesday nights with his mother, develop his character. I felt myself constantly rooting for Geryon in hopes that he finds what he is looking for and is able to finally let his wings breathe from under his leather jacket.