The Saint of Bright Doors

I greatly enjoyed my time with the book, even when the plot felt to me going nowhere (and not in that intentional cozy sort of way, but in a rambling past things that aren’t central to whatever it is that has or will happen). Some of this is likely due to cultural expectations of a narrative progression, and it was actually a joy to have that shaken up. The prose is decadent and evocative, breathing life into a world that was equally enchanting and horrifying. I also greatly appreciated fiction that pulls from Buddhist traditions and imagery, while not bowing to a need to only shine it in a grand and endearing light. Much of this may go unnoticed without having been previously exposed to the stories not often found in mainstream Buddhism, but it’s not required for enjoyment, just a lovely layer of depth to an already nuanced world. If, like me, you are woefully ignorant to the historical and political turmoil in Sri Lanka, reading the authors blog post on Unbuddhism (googling his name and the term will turn it up) will help illuminate the parallels of the recent history and present depicted in the story. I happened upon that prior to reading and it didn’t spoil anything while giving my a grounding in an unfamiliar culture that was a juxtaposition to my exposure to Vajrayana stories and teachings. Highly recommended, along with many of the more recent blog posts.

I really enjoyed this, but I left it feeling like I should read it again because I feel there were a lot of deeper, philosophical things I missed. (that's a bonus: I love a book that's full enough to read over and over and find things you missed.) So, the thing I want to share, I can't because it's a huge spoiler. But, a hint won't hurt? A little past mid-way through the book, I felt like I was missing something. Like something was almost not-quite visible out of the corner of my eye. And then a twist happened, and yep. Also, this is such a brilliant take on something else I can't say because spoilers. Dang it! Okay, this quote I can share, right? "But you have to understand, while we are all unchosen together, I'm not like the rest of you." Or this one: "Fame, she says, is how a ruling class conditions artists to docility and incorporates their work to lesser ends." See? It's a great book. There's this wry humor and big concepts and sadness and hope. I highly recommend it, but don't rush through it. It's a savoring type of book.