Crafting Perfection- A Tale of Love and Order in Suzanne Berne’s ‘A Perfect Arrangement’
A perfect arrangement by Suzanne Berne is a novel that delves into the complexities of human relationships and the delicate balance between desire and duty. Set in the 1950s, the story revolves around a young woman named Alice, who finds herself caught in a web of love, loyalty, and moral dilemmas. As the narrative unfolds, readers are taken on a journey that explores the nature of perfection and the sacrifices one must make to achieve it.
In the opening pages of the novel, Alice is introduced as a young wife living in a small town. She seems to have everything a woman could desire: a loving husband, a comfortable home, and a sense of security. However, as the story progresses, it becomes evident that Alice’s life is far from perfect. Her husband, David, is distant and preoccupied with his own ambitions, leaving Alice feeling isolated and unfulfilled. To make matters worse, Alice’s relationship with her best friend, Lila, takes a dark turn, leading her down a path of self-discovery and moral quandaries.
One of the central themes of “A perfect arrangement” is the concept of perfection. Berne challenges the reader’s perception of what constitutes a perfect life, suggesting that it is often an illusion. Alice’s pursuit of perfection is driven by her desire to be the ideal wife and friend, but this quest leads her to make choices that have far-reaching consequences. The novel explores the idea that perfection is unattainable and that the pursuit of it can be detrimental to one’s well-being.
Berne’s writing style is both elegant and poignant, allowing readers to connect with the characters on a deeply emotional level. The author’s ability to convey the complexities of human emotions is evident in the way she portrays Alice’s internal struggles. As the story unfolds, Alice’s relationships with David, Lila, and her own mother become increasingly strained, leading her to question her place in the world and the choices she has made.
Another significant theme in “A perfect arrangement” is the role of duty in shaping one’s life. Alice is constantly torn between her loyalty to her husband and her own desires. She feels a deep sense of duty to David, even as she grows increasingly dissatisfied with their marriage. This internal conflict highlights the struggle many women faced during the 1950s, as they navigated the expectations placed upon them by society.
As the novel progresses, Alice’s journey towards self-discovery leads her to make difficult decisions that challenge her long-held beliefs. The author’s portrayal of Alice’s growth and transformation is both compelling and thought-provoking, prompting readers to reflect on their own lives and the choices they have made.
In conclusion, “A perfect arrangement” by Suzanne Berne is a powerful novel that delves into the complexities of human relationships and the pursuit of perfection. Through the story of Alice, readers are taken on a journey that explores the delicate balance between desire and duty, and the sacrifices one must make to achieve a sense of fulfillment. Berne’s masterful storytelling and rich character development make this novel a must-read for anyone interested in the complexities of the human experience.
