I recently finished City of Girls by Elizabeth Gilbert, and wow, what a captivating journey it was! As a fan of historical fiction and stories about strong, complex women, this book appealed to me immensely. Gilbert’s reputation, especially after Eat Pray Love, had piqued my interest, and this latest offering promised glamour, sex, and a deep dive into a vibrant theater world of the 1940s. How could I resist?
The story unfolds through the eyes of Vivian Morris, who, at 89, recounts her wild and unconventional youth in Manhattan. Kicked out of Vassar College, Vivian is sent to live with her Aunt Peg, who owns the Lily Playhouse—a decadent theater filled with eccentric characters that will shape her life. As Vivian navigates this vibrant world, the book explores themes of female sexuality, personal freedom, and the complexities of love.
The positives are plentiful. First, the character development is masterful. Each figure in Vivian’s life is distinct and memorable, from the mischievous showgirls to the wise, no-nonsense stage manager. Gilbert employs rich, descriptive prose that draws you into the scene, allowing you to envision the bustling Broadway nightlife vividly. One reviewer noted the “excellent character development” and “descriptive prose,” which I wholeheartedly agree with. Vivian’s emotional journey and evolution, marked by pleasure and regret, feel incredibly authentic.
Moreover, the themes are powerfully relevant. As Vivian says, “At some point in a woman’s life, she just gets tired of being ashamed all the time.” This sentiment resonated deeply with me, as Gilbert illustrates how Vivian learns to embrace her identity and desires. This message of liberation makes the book feel particularly important, aligning with the feminist discourse that is so essential today.
Nevertheless, the novel isn’t without its drawbacks. Some readers felt the pacing fluctuated, with sections that felt slow, which I can understand. The letter format, where Vivian recounts her life story to another character, occasionally made the narrative feel stretched. I was also taken aback by the explicit nature surrounding Vivian’s sexual escapades. While this depiction aligns with the story’s intent to explore female sexuality, it may not resonate with every reader’s taste. Teddie S. highlights this when she questions the appeal of Vivian’s “drunken sex with multiple men.” It’s a point worth considering, as the boundaries of pleasure and consequence in sex play a significant role in Vivian’s schema.
Reading the novel brought forth a rollercoaster of emotions; I laughed, grew frustrated, and even felt a pang of sadness as certain characters exited the stage of Vivian’s life. The ending, while touching, felt a bit abrupt. I can understand why some readers expressed disappointment regarding it. It left me yearning for a deeper resolution, somewhat at odds with the otherwise immersive experience.
Overall, City of Girls is a beautifully written exploration of self-discovery set against the rich backdrop of New York’s theatrical world. It delivers a unique blend of joy, humor, and profound reflection on life’s fleeting nature. With a rating of 4.5 stars, I recommend this novel to those looking for a thought-provoking read with strong female characters who defy societal expectations. Gilbert has once again proven her ability to craft a meaningful narrative that lingers in the mind long after the last page has turned. Do yourself a favor and pick this one up—it just might inspire you to embrace your own desires unapologetically.