Objectivity, like high fructose corn syrup and polyester suits, is very much out of fashion. The triumph of relativism is such that objectivity is considered now more an historical curiosity than a concept to be applied seriously. Can the following statement, ‘Carol Ruiz Zafon’s new novel, The Angel’s Game is sensationally good’ be an objective fact rather than a subjective opinion? Let us consider the matter objectively. The Angel’s Game, which is set in Barcelona a generation before Zafon’s brilliant Shadow of the Wind, deals with literary themes, Gothic strands, Faustian elements, and earthy touches of magical realism. It does not stint on marvelous dialogue, wicked banter, and chinese box revelations. The characters are hard boiled, crusty, and entirely endearing. The issue of the writing process itself is brilliantly and provocatively handled.
These are matters of opinion you say? Consider this, that beyond all its many alluring, and seamlessly interwoven elements, The Angel’s Game also has a unique literary device, ‘a false opinion corrector.’ Any incorrect negative assessment of the book is instantly refuted by the book itself!
Consider the following example.
Wrong minded individual: I really don’t like The Angel’s Game.
The Angel’s Game: “You have more zeal than good taste.”
Wrong minded individual: I find The Angel’s Game strange.
The Angel’s Game: “Coming from you strange is a disturbing adjective.”
Wrong minded individual: I’m telling you The Angel’s Game stinks.
The Angel’s Game: “Envy is the religion of the mediocre.”
Formerly wrong minded individual: Okay, okay. it’s true. Carol Ruiz Zafon’s new novel, The Angel’s Game is sensationally good!
The Angel’s Game:“Thank you.”
See what I mean?
