Play Book Tag discussion

Arcadia by Lauren Groff - 4* - My Review

This book tells the life story of protagonist Ridley “Bit” Stone. It starts in the 1970’s when Bit was age two in a commune called Arcadia in rural upstate New York. Bit is an idealist, and life never truly beats it out of him. He has a close relationship with his mother. He cares for others, often putting their needs ahead of his own.

It is structured in four parts. The first part follows Bit through his teen years and is set in the commune. The middle two parts take place in Bit’s thirties, after he has moved to New York City where he works as a professor. He is a single parent to daughter after his wife mysteriously vanishes. The final part is set in 2018, when Bit is caretaking for his mother after she is diagnosed with Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS).

The commune starts as a place of hope and esprit de corps, but gradually gives way to leadership issues, rebellion, and turmoil, eventually leading to its downfall. The former “hippies” must then find a place in the world. The middle parts take place in the 1980s, with its materialistic focus of the “yuppies,” almost diametrically opposed to how Bit had grown up. The later parts include 9/11 and a global pandemic. I had to check the publication date of this novel (2012), well before any inkling of Covid-19, which is amazing foresight on the part of the author! These historic events provide a panoramic backdrop for Bit’s life story.

This is a character-driven novel about life’s ups and downs. It is beautifully written with lush descriptions. The tone is melancholy and philosophical. Bit is a fabulous character. I found it easy to root for him. I enjoyed the inclusion of the Amish neighbors. It explores the importance of community and how it has changed over the decades. Themes include kindness, freedom, friendship, and family. I have two other books written by Lauren Groff, and this one is by far my favorite of the three.

I remember loving the book when I read it (years ago). None of Groff's later books have interested me. I'm so glad that you enjoyed it.

Holly R W wrote: "I remember loving the book when I read it (years ago). None of Groff's later books have interested me. I'm so glad that you enjoyed it."

Glad you loved it too.

I read Fates and Furies and The Matrix and they were just okay for me.

Are there any references to Tom Stoppard's play of the same title? It's my favorite play and if there is a link of some kind I'm going to need to read it.

Mary wrote: "Are there any references to Tom Stoppard's play of the same title? It's my favorite play and if there is a link of some kind I'm going to need to read it."
I am not aware of any intentional linkages. The only ones I can think of are that both are related to a pastoral ideal, which eventually breaks down.