No One Is Talking About This by Patricia Lockwood

Title: No One Is Talking About This
Author: Patricia Lockwood
Publisher: Riverhead Books
Genre: Literary Fiction
Year of Publication: 2021
Date of Publication: February 16, 2021
Pages: 224
ISBN-10: 0593189582
ISBN-13: 978-0593189580

Summary

No One Is Talking About This follows a woman who gains fame through her social media presence, referred to as “the portal.”

 As she navigates the absurdities of online culture, a family crisis forces her to confront reality, blurring the lines between virtual and real-life experiences. 

Main Plot & Characters

In the first half of the book, the protagonist becomes an internet sensation.

Her life takes a profound turn when she receives distressing news from her mother, compelling her to reassess her digital existence and engage deeply with her family’s reality. 

Key Themes of No One Is Talking About This

• Digital Culture: Explores the impact of social media on perception and identity.
• Reality vs. Virtuality: Examines the tension between online personas and real-life experiences.
• Human Connection: Highlights the importance of genuine relationships amidst digital noise.
• Grief and Presence: Delves into coping with loss and the necessity of being present.

Writing Style

Patricia Lockwood writes in a way that captures the absurdity of online life. She uses a poetic narrative to show how disjointed internet scrolling culture is. 

Impact of No One Is Talking About This

The novel received critical acclaim, becoming a finalist for the 2021 Booker Prize and the Women’s Prize for Fiction. 

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