Reading Frankenstein by Mary Shelley is like opening a door to a world where ambition, regret, and loneliness intertwine in a tragic dance. This isn’t just a horror story about a monster—it’s a profound exploration of what it means to create life and the heavy burden that follows.
As I read through the pages, I was struck by how the story centered not just on the creation of a monster, but on the emotional and psychological torment that follows. Victor Frankenstein, driven by an insatiable thirst for knowledge, pushes the boundaries of science, but in doing so, he steps into a nightmare of his own making. The creature he brings to life, though monstrous in appearance, is deeply human in its desire for companionship and understanding.
What resonated with me the most was the theme of isolation. Both Victor and his creation find themselves alone in the world—Victor by choice, as he withdraws from his loved ones, and the creature by force, rejected by society because of his appearance. This parallel between creator and creation is haunting, and it made me reflect on how our actions, especially those driven by selfish desires, can lead to unintended consequences that isolate us from the very world we sought to influence.
The writing itself, while challenging at times due to its 19th-century style, is beautiful and poetic. There are moments where the descriptions of nature mirror the inner turmoil of the characters, adding another layer to the narrative. This isn’t just a book you read; it’s a book you experience.
But Frankenstein isn’t without its flaws. On my first read, I found the pacing a bit slow, with too much time spent on Victor’s internal monologues and descriptions of the natural world. I expected more focus on the creation process and the relationship between Victor and the creature. However, on a second read, I began to appreciate these elements more, seeing them as essential to building the story’s atmosphere and emotional depth.
Ultimately, Frankenstein is more than a horror story; it’s a meditation on ambition, responsibility, and the human condition. It’s a book that stays with you long after you turn the last page, making you question what it truly means to be a creator and the responsibilities that come with it. This novel isn’t just a classic for its time; it’s a timeless reflection on humanity’s deepest fears and desires.
For anyone looking to explore themes of regret, isolation, and the consequences of unchecked ambition, Frankenstein is a must-read. It’s a story that will make you think long after you’ve put it down.
