Epeolatry Book Review: Carrie by Stephen King

Stephen King’s “Carrie” is a classic horror novel that tells the story of a high school student named Carrie White, who discovers she has telekinetic powers. The novel explores themes of bullying, abuse, and the dangers of repressed anger. Published in 1974, it was King’s first published novel and it has since become a cultural touchstone. The book has been adapted into a movie, musical, and television series, and has been translated into multiple languages.

“Carrie” follows the story of Carrie White, a shy and socially awkward high school student who lives with her abusive and religious mother. Carrie is bullied by her classmates and feels out of place in the world, until she discovers she has telekinetic powers. As she begins to understand and control her powers, she also starts to confront the bullies and her mother, who has been physically and emotionally abusive towards her.

As her powers grow stronger, so does her sense of self-worth and determination to take control of her life. Things come to a head at the prom, where the bullying reaches a climax, and Carrie uses her powers in a violent and deadly way. The novel ends with the aftermath of the prom and the consequences of Carrie’s actions.

“Carrie” is a chilling and thought-provoking novel that explores themes of bullying, abuse, and the dangers of repressed anger. The character of Carrie White is a sympathetic protagonist, who readers can’t help but root for as she struggles to assert herself against the forces that oppress her. The novel also delves into the psychological aspect of her mother’s abuse, how it affected her and how it triggered her powers.

One of the most striking aspects of the novel is the way it portrays the high school setting, the way it shows the dynamics of bullying and how it can escalate. It shows how a group of people can turn on someone, and how that can lead to tragic consequences. The novel also shows the impact of bullying, how it can make someone feel isolated and alone, and how it can lead to a sense of hopelessness.

The novel’s portrayal of telekinesis as an expression of repressed anger is also notable. It highlights how repressing emotions can lead to destructive and dangerous consequences. The novel also explores how people’s actions can have far-reaching and unintended consequences, and how it’s important to consider the impact of our actions on others.

“Carrie” is a powerful and thought-provoking novel that explores complex and difficult themes in a way that is both compelling and accessible. The novel’s portrayal of bullying and abuse is both realistic and chilling, and the character of Carrie White is a sympathetic and relatable protagonist. The novel also delves into the psychological aspect of her mother’s abuse, how it affected her and how it triggered her powers. It’s a book that is not only a horror story but also a story of a girl who is trying to find her place in the world, and it is a novel that will stay with readers long after they have finished reading it. The best part is? Decades later, it still holds up as a solid piece of storytelling.

/5

Available from Amazon and Bookshop.