JJ’s Reviews > War and Peace > Status Update

Volume II left me invested. Natasha annoyed me endlessly, but I suppose that’s part of being young—her choices are frustrating yet believable. I found myself relating more to Prince Andrei, though I’m not sure if it’s our temperament or simply this stage of life. Pierre still exasperates me, but he finally stepped up when it mattered. I’m curious to see how Marya grows. Tolstoy writes flawed people so well

So far it feels quite modern. Characters are young, uncertain, hopeful, vain, lonely—searching for love, purpose, belonging, clearer sense of life. Around them society hums with expectations, fashionable opinions, politics & threat of war. Uniforms & drawing rooms belong to another era but the emotions don’t. They still chase status, misunderstand love & speak confidently about conflicts they barely understand.