Stone Blind

by Natalie Haynes

3.5 out of 5 stars

In her novel "Stone Blind," Natalie Haynes offers a refreshing perspective on the myth of Medusa, transforming the traditional narrative of the Gorgon from a monstrous villain into a deeply empathetic character. Known for her work as a classicist and comedian, Haynes brings a unique blend of scholarly insight and wit to this retelling, aiming to challenge the long-standing patriarchal narratives that have demonized Medusa for centuries. Despite its promising premise and strong character development, the novel ultimately falls slightly short in delivering a climactic and cohesive story, making it a somewhat underwhelming read.

One of the most commendable aspects of "Stone Blind" is its empathetic portrayal of Medusa. Haynes reimagines Medusa not as a fearsome monster but as a vulnerable and wronged individual. The only mortal among her Gorgon sisters, Medusa is depicted as experiencing the full range of human emotions and weaknesses. This humanization is further emphasized through her tragic transformation, which occurs as a punishment not for her own actions but for the violation she suffered at the hands of Poseidon. By focusing on Medusa’s plight and the injustices she endures, Haynes invites readers to reconsider the traditional narrative and view Medusa through a lens of compassion.

Haynes excels in her characterization of the gods and other mythological figures. Characters like Athene, Poseidon, and Perseus are portrayed with depth and complexity, revealing their flaws and motivations. The interplay between these characters adds richness to the narrative, providing a multifaceted view of the mythological world. Athene’s pettiness, Poseidon’s callousness, and Perseus’ entitlement are all laid bare, highlighting the gods’ often cruel and capricious nature.

However, the novel’s strength in characterization is also its weakness. Medusa, who is ostensibly the central character, appears in only about 30% of the novel. The story frequently shifts focus to other characters and their narratives, which can be disappointing for readers expecting a narrative centered primarily on Medusa. This fragmented approach, while adding variety, detracts from the cohesiveness of the overall plot.

Haynes' background as a comedian is evident in her writing style, which is infused with wit and humor. This adds a layer of enjoyment to the reading experience, particularly in the interactions between the gods. The humor is sometimes subtle, adding a lightness to the otherwise tragic narrative. For example, the snarky commentary of the gods and the whimsical perspectives of characters like Medusa’s snakes and a talkative crow provide comic relief and enhance the storytelling.

Despite its engaging start and promising premise, "Stone Blind" suffers from an anticlimactic plot. The buildup to Perseus’ encounter with Medusa, a pivotal moment in the myth, lacks the tension and excitement expected in a retelling of such a dramatic tale. The climax, when it arrives, feels underwhelming and rushed, failing to deliver a satisfying resolution to the narrative.

Additionally, the novel’s disjointed structure, with its multiple perspectives and frequent shifts in point of view, can make the story feel fragmented. While this approach allows Haynes to explore different facets of the myth, it also results in a lack of narrative cohesion. The focus on characters other than Medusa often overshadows her story, leaving readers wanting more of her perspective and voice.

"Stone Blind" is a well-written and insightful retelling of Medusa’s myth, offering a fresh and empathetic perspective on a character long vilified in classical mythology. Haynes’ strong character development and engaging writing style, infused with wit and humor, make the novel an enjoyable read. However, its anticlimactic plot and fragmented narrative ultimately detract from its overall impact. While "Stone Blind" is a solid read for fans of Greek mythology and those interested in feminist retellings, it may not fully satisfy readers looking for a gripping and tightly woven story.

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