Plot summary, “How to Be Both” by Ali Smith in 5 Minutes - Book Review
0"How to Be Both" is a novel written by British author Ali Smith, published in 2014. The novel is known for its innovative narrative structure and its exploration of themes related to art, identity, and the passage of time.
The book is divided into two parts, each focusing on a different character from different time periods. The unique aspect of the novel is that readers can encounter the book in two different ways: starting with either Part 1 or Part 2. This dual narrative structure provides two different perspectives on the story, offering readers a chance to experience the novel in a non-linear and thought-provoking manner.
Part 1 of the novel centers around the character of George, a teenage girl living in contemporary times who is dealing with the recent death of her mother. George is fascinated by the work of a Renaissance artist named Francesco del Cossa and becomes engrossed in researching the artist's life.
Part 2 of the novel follows the perspective of Francesco del Cossa himself as he navigates life as a young artist in Renaissance Italy, encountering various challenges and experiences that shape his identity and work.
The themes of the novel revolve around the intersections of art, time, and identity, as well as the connections that transcend historical and temporal boundaries. Ali Smith's writing is characterized by its lyrical prose, wit, and engagement with contemporary social and political issues.
"How to Be Both" received critical acclaim for its innovative structure, intricate storytelling, and thought-provoking themes. It was shortlisted for several major literary awards and won the 2014 Goldsmiths Prize and the 2015 Baileys Women's Prize for Fiction.
The novel invites readers to engage with its unconventional structure and to consider the ways in which art and history intersect and influence one another. It has been praised for its exploration of the fluidity of identity and its ability to challenge conventional narrative conventions.