Shutter Island Discussion

[Nickythebean]

I just finished reading Shutter Island by Dennis Lehane. I loved it. But I feel like I need to go and re-read it because of the ending! Lol. I would like to discuss this book with anyone that has already read it. SPOILER ALERT: If you haven't read this book, you may not want to follow this discussion since it will necessarily reveal the ending.

[Nickythebean]

What are your thoughts on the ending? Was Teddy actually Andrew and having a psychotic break from reality? Or was Teddy drugged in order to be kept on the island? My mind keeps going back to Teddy's discussion with the orderly who tells him to get off the island ASAP.

[Peggy]

Teddy was actually Andrew. I thought that the first time I read it and still believe it now. He couldn't accept the fact that he had killed his wife and went into the "Teddy" personality to get away. I think he wanted the lobotomy to keep from reliving the horror of what happened to his wife and children.

[[deleted user]]

Peggy wrote: "Teddy was actually Andrew. I thought that the first time I read it and still believe it now. He couldn't accept the fact that he had killed his wife and went into the "Teddy" personality to get awa..."

I agree. Great book and one I will definitely reread.

[Jen]

I loved the book! I agree -- Teddy was indeed Andrew. Loved the tone Lehane set, and the deeper meaning in so many of the exchanges once you read the ending. Definitely a book worth rereading!