Lauren Groff's "Matrix" is a fascinating historical tale set in England and France in the 12th century. It takes Sri Lankan readers to the medieval world of a royal monastery. The narrative is about Marie de France, a 17-year-old girl who was kicked out of the royal court and forced to be the prioress of a poor abbey. Marie uses her vision and dedication to turn the abbey into a place of female strength and success in a society where women have little power.
Sri Lankan readers will relate to the novel's themes of community strength and spiritual commitment, which are similar to our own rich monastic traditions. The book's depiction of female leadership in a patriarchal society presents significant parallels to current discussions in Sri Lanka over women's empowerment and leadership. Groff's rich, complex writing brings to life a world that has been forgotten while still dealing with issues of faith, power, and love that will never go out of style.
The work looks at the conflict between spiritual commitment and worldly ambition through Marie's journey. This will interest readers who are interested in the connection between faith and power. "Matrix" is a meditation on female autonomy that refers to human battles for self-determination that go beyond time and place. It is set against the backdrop of medieval politics and ecclesiastical power as Marie develops her all-female utopia.
Quote
"The world is full of women who'd tell stories with their feet, who'd dance in spite of the brambles, who'd stride over the cliffs and through the thornbrushes if that was what it took to save themselves."
Reviews
A beautiful work of historical fiction that reimagines Marie de France's life with stunning writing. Groff writes a complex tapestry of religion, power, and women's strength that sticks with you long after you've read the last page. Reading that really changes you.
About the Author
Lauren Groff is a well-known American author of both novels and short stories. She has been a finalist for the National Book Award three times and was named one of Granta's Best of Young American Novelists. The New Yorker, The Atlantic, and a number of Best American Short Stories anthologies have published her work. She lives in Florida.
Product Details
Author: Lauren Groff
Publisher: Riverhead Books
Language: English
Binding: Hardcover
Pages: 272
