Review: A Gentleman in Moscow
The film adaptation for A Gentleman in Moscow is officially out, and I have to say that I'm very excited. For the first time in a long time, I've read the book before the movie! Slow readers are rarely that hip to jive (as the kids say these days). I think I was there for some of the Harry Potter books, the Hunger Games (?), and All the Light We Cannot See. Otherwise, I'm usually a step behind. But not now, babay! Anyway, A Gentleman in Moscow was such an oddly inspirational book, so I had to write a little review to celebrate the adaptation release!
PC: Elaine Atherholt
Amor Towles, Aesthetic, & Alliteration
Count Alexander Rostov, the gentleman sentenced to live out his life in the Metropol Hotel in Moscow, is a man in love with his country. He loves language, wine, good food, real human connection, and the traditions that built the very hotel and its luxury services that holds him captive. And these loves are very apparent throughout the novel. Amor Towles has a way of describing sentiments as well as environments that captures the imagination—even in this "bottle episode" type story every scene introduces you to a new aspect of the hotel and the people who occupy it.
As Count Rostov's life seemingly becomes smaller Towles forces it to expand, including memorable characters who brighten the world constantly threatening to darken around Rostov. The picture Amor Towles paints is enchanting and nostalgic, making you evaluate your own life while appreciating the small things that bring the magic to daily routines. As Rostov dives into his mornings, afternoons, and evenings you're pulled along to indulge in his little pleasures, embrace the same beauty he tries to find, and simmer in his sorrows.
The Words
And the words. The eloquence of Count Rostov, bred into him through the pride of his country, good education, and a appreciation for life drips from every sentence. It was a pleasure to read, honestly. My favorite easter egg is the chapter titles. You don't even notice it at first, but slowly you see the chapter titles all start with the letter A.
An Apprenticeship
Absinthe
Arachne's Art
Adulthood
Applause and Acclaim
Adagio, Andante, Allegro
Conclusion
You should read this book. And probably watch the movie. Historical fiction meets exploration of social class, and a citizen's perspective on the Communism that plagued Europe for far too long. Its got wit and wisdom and will stick with you for weeks after reading.
Have you read A Gentleman in Moscow? Let me know what you thought by DMing or tagging me on Instagram!
Happy Reading!
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