Last updated on January 12, 2019
I have had Bel Canto by Ann Patchett on my shelf for years. I finally picked it up and brought it on my most recent vacation.
This books is almost completely set in a mansion in a developing (so-called third world) country. A terrorist organisation attempts a coup by breaking into the mansion while a fancy ball is taking place. There are many distinguished people in attendance to celebrate the birthday of a Japanese businessman. The terrorists intend to kidnap the president of the country but their plans go awry because the president has skipped the event in favor of one of his favorite pastimes.
Over the course of several months, we get to know many of the hostages including a famous soprano, politicians and diplomats, businessmen, a translator, a priest. We also get to know the terrorists, the leaders, their army of young people, and the liaison person between the inside and outside worlds.
Early in the book, all the female guests are released except the soprano who many of the guests and some of the terrorists fall in love with. As time goes on, everyone gets into a routine and several love stories emerge. Gen becomes the general translator and Simon the main chef. Music softens everyone and establishes a comfortable environment. Life goes on within the four walls of the mansion. The lines between hostage and terrorist blur and they start to dream about building lives together. However, reality intrudes and a hostage situation is bound to result in some conflict and violence.
I read this book fairly quickly because I enjoyed the story. I enjoyed getting to know the characters and their lives. A key concept of the book is the power of music to attract hearts and minds. In Bel Canto, Ann Patchett also explores love, friendship, relationships, self-discovery. Even in the surprising ending, she continues to explore the nature of love.
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