Exploring the Artistry: Lessons in Writing from the Experience of Taking Punches in Boxing (Ken Jaworowski)
In the small town of Rust Belt Pennsylvania, Ken Jaworowski weaves a gripping tale of resilience and survival in his thriller, "What About the Bodies." The story revolves around three main characters: a struggling single mother, an unemployed musician, and an autistic young man, each entangled in a web of crime but refusing to back down.
Boxing, with its raw and unfiltered display of human emotion, serves as a metaphor for the narrative. Just as boxing takes what's most ugly and what's best in a person and puts it center stage, these characters move towards danger, embodying the concept that one must face challenges head-on to survive.
The thriller delves into the concept of catharsis, a renewal that arises after experiencing deep emotions. In this context, catharsis is a form of emotional purging, a way for the characters, and perhaps the readers, to confront their fears and find a sense of release. The original Greek term for catharsis, katharsis, means purification, cleansing, and purging, aptly reflecting the emotional journey the characters undertake.
Humour plays a significant role in the story, reminiscent of the ancient Greeks who appreciated funny jokes in their storytelling. This humour serves as a balancing force, providing relief amidst the tension and darkness, much like how boxing can be used to display humour.
Saul Bellow's suggestion that tough scenes and piercing words bring us nearer to what can hurt us, which can lessen the pain of life, resonates in "What About the Bodies." The book's tough scenes and piercing words serve as a dark backing for a better understanding of life, offering a glimpse into the struggles and triumphs of the human spirit.
In essence, "What About the Bodies" is a testament to the power of fiction to bring us closer to the things we fear, making us less sad in the process. It's a compelling exploration of catharsis, courage, tenacity, and soul, set against the backdrop of a small town grappling with its own struggles.
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