A labyrinth of mysteries!

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This is an altogether difficult review to write, namely because I don’t want to include any spoilers for those of you yet to read this amazing story. Piranesi is a novel that reflects very much on solitude - and what solitude means for Piranesi - is he lonely, or is he content in his solitude?

Piranesi lives in The House - a vast world of rooms, and columns, statues and the elements. He has spent his days mapping the world in which he lives, documenting the statues, respecting its natural forces and visiting the dead. Piranesi is very much alone here - having little human contact, aside from two meetings a week with The Other. The Other, is in himself, a mysterious figure! His aim is to discover what he coins The Great and Secret Knowledge.

This is a thoroughly bizarre tale...but I was entirely enthralled by it. Susanna Clarke’s world building was exquisite. Following Piranesi’s journey via his journal articles was so insightful - I really felt as if I could reach through the pages of this book, and speak to Piranesi directly. This book makes for many great discussions - it’s such a labyrinth of puzzles and mysteries - and I was taken on such a journey of emotions! This book is definitely one which will stay with me - although I cannot precisely fathom why! But I guess that’s what makes it truly magical, isn’t it!?