Plot summary, “The Reivers” by William Faulkner in 5 Minutes - Book Review
0"The Reivers" is a novel written by renowned American author William Faulkner. Published in 1962, it was Faulkner's final novel and received the Pulitzer Prize for Fiction in 1963. The story is set in Faulkner's fictional Yoknapatawpha County, which serves as the backdrop for many of his works.
"The Reivers" is a coming-of-age tale that takes place in the early 20th century, specifically in 1905. The narrative follows the adventures of a young boy named Lucius "Boon" McCaslin. Boon, along with his companions, Ned McCaslin (Boon's grandfather) and a black man named Lucas Beauchamp, embarks on a journey to Memphis, Tennessee.
The trio sets out to borrow Boon's family's automobile without permission, and their escapades and misadventures form the core of the novel. The story explores themes of youth, friendship, race relations, and the loss of innocence. As they encounter various challenges and obstacles along the way, the characters undergo personal growth and self-discovery.
Faulkner's writing style in "The Reivers" is characterized by his distinctive use of multiple narrators and stream-of-consciousness techniques. The narrative voice shifts between different characters, providing various perspectives on the events and enhancing the reader's understanding of the story.
"The Reivers" stands out among Faulkner's works as a more lighthearted and comedic novel compared to his other, often complex and dense, literary endeavors. It showcases Faulkner's versatility as a writer, demonstrating his ability to master different genres and tones.
Overall, "The Reivers" is a novel that explores themes of adventure, youth, and the complexities of human relationships. It offers a departure from Faulkner's more introspective and dense works, presenting a more accessible and entertaining story while still showcasing his remarkable literary skill.