A new release – great! But what is it about? Is it the kind of novel that is worth your time? Well, read on and let me answer some questions that my audience has asked so far about the Silent Symphony.
While I did cover some of this in the launch post, there were aspects of the novel that I left unaddressed. If there’s something that you’re still unsure about, please post your question below.
Where is the Symphony Set?
The Silent Symphony is set in an entirely fictional world. It certainly mirrors our own in significant ways. The technology and such is not entirely modern – think of it was somewhere in the early nineties.
I needed to place it in a world before phones and computers. This is because I wanted to explore the dangers of social media and internet group-think in an allegorical/indirect way.
The entire narrative takes place in “The City” – a place with no name, surrounded by massive walls. There are many reasons for this. For one, it is a reference to “the dead city” mentioned in T.S. Eliot’s “The Wasteland” – a poem that has influenced this novel. Not only that, but understanding the secrets of the Wasteland, may unlock secrets in Symphony (this is the purpose of each of the references in the novel – not merely Easter Eggs, but meaningful allusions). Eliot is – of course – referring to London during the Blitz in the poem.
Here, the City signifies Troy (Ilium) – that jewel of a city, a city destined to fall and signal the rise of Western Culture. Troy a significant reference because it creates a clear link between the characters in the story and their mythological counterparts.
More than that, the City is a walled-off place. A place which sets itself apart from other “countries”.
The best way to sum it up: Think of it as a place that is on the cusp of becoming 1984’s Oceania.
What’s with the References?
There are many references, yes. This is by design. These aren’t Marvel-esque Easter Eggs for the fun of it. There is a function within the narrative. There are some things that I don’t explain in hopes that the clues will spark discussion and closer examination of the text. It’s what I want from books – secrets. Hopefully I have delivered it here.
Each chapter references a song (mostly classic rock). The lyrics may have some relevance to the plot, the respective chapter, and/or something about the character. Trust me, there are things here – have a look.
As I’ve said before, there is a heavy presence of Greek mythology. Each of the major characters is an allusion to a character from classical myth. Some may be easier to spot than others. I am unwilling to spoil “who-is-who” just yet, as I believe that this will take some of the fun out of it.
All I’ll say for now: Warrick losing a shoe in Chapter 1 is a massive clue to who he represents…
Do I Need to ‘Get’ the References?
No. There is a complete story about love, art, and oppressive politics here. There are elements of romance, thriller, and much more here. (That’s kinda why it’s so hard to classify this novel).
Not bothering with the references should not ruin the experience – especially if you enjoy character-oriented stories (which this is).
The secrets and deeper meanings are there if you want to find them. This is an aspect of fiction I really enjoy.
See for Yourself
Don’t take my word for it – here’s a preview:
Are you sold? Please let me know what you think in the comments below.
Really cannot wait for thsi