Normal People by Sally Rooney (2018) – A Review

Sally Rooney’s Normal People is a nuanced and compelling exploration of love, class, and self-identity. Set in contemporary Ireland, the novel follows the complex and evolving relationship between Connell and Marianne, two high school classmates who come from different social backgrounds. The novel has received widespread critical acclaim for its portrayal of modern relationships and its exploration of the uncertainties of millennial life.

The Story of Connell and Marianne: Love and Friendship

Normal People is primarily centered on the relationship between Connell and Marianne, who initially struggle to connect in high school due to their different social standings. Connell is popular and well-liked, while Marianne is seen as an outsider, an intellectual with a sharp mind but few friends. As they move on to university, their relationship deepens, shifting from friendship to romance and back again, often complicated by their insecurities, social differences, and unspoken desires.

Rooney deftly explores the psychological complexities of love and friendship, focusing on how these relationships evolve over time. Through Connell and Marianne, she examines the tension between vulnerability and emotional distance, and the way in which social class impacts both self-perception and romantic relationships. The novel is a tender exploration of how love can be both a source of comfort and confusion.

Themes of Class, Identity, and Social Pressure

One of the central themes of Normal People is the tension between class and identity. Connell, coming from a working-class background, feels inferior to Marianne, who is from an affluent family. This sense of inadequacy shapes Connell’s behavior and his interactions with Marianne, as he tries to navigate the expectations of his peers and family. Marianne, on the other hand, is caught between her desire for intellectual connection and the emotional baggage of her family’s dysfunction.

The novel also addresses the impact of social pressure on personal identity. Connell and Marianne’s relationship is heavily influenced by the societal expectations of those around them, and both struggle with their own sense of self-worth. Rooney captures the internal conflicts of young adults as they come of age, making the characters’ experiences relatable to readers navigating similar life stages.

Rooney’s Writing Style: Emotional and Intimate

Sally Rooney’s writing is one of the standout features of Normal People. Her prose is sharp and economical, but it also conveys deep emotional resonance. She has a remarkable ability to capture the subtleties of her characters’ emotions, making their internal struggles feel immediate and real. Rooney’s focus on the nuances of communication—both verbal and non-verbal—adds layers of complexity to the relationship between Connell and Marianne, highlighting the ways in which people often fail to express their feelings, even when they are in love.

Conclusion: A Deeply Human Story of Love and Identity

In conclusion, Normal People is a captivating and insightful exploration of love, identity, and class. Sally Rooney’s portrayal of the complexities of modern relationships and her ability to delve into the emotional depths of her characters make this novel a standout in contemporary literature. Whether you are a fan of romance or literary fiction, Normal People offers a deeply human story that resonates long after the final page.