Week Two: Can you feel this?

Initially, I was reading with a view point apart from reality. Seeking to define what I thought were metaphors and written puzzles, I slowly began to realize: "Ohhh! This is her crappy life." and immediately began to feel the story come together. Sort of. What I like is the promise to keep the language and mood of the writing very honestly diary-esque. It's verbatim when the content should not be altered (ie: the writing on the walls, Angel Delaporte--who has a fascinating last name, don't you think?). Then the easy, self-effacing way she describes herself, her talents, her relationship to her daughter, husband and mother-in-law, and her dream of a fairy tale ending. I wonder, do you feel empathy for this woman and her unusual life?

I also like the artistic eyes with which she views the world. It's either foreshadowing a break-through or a breakdown. Palahniuk is no Wally Lamb (read "She's Come Undone" for another man's view on a woman's perspective) so I'm fairly certain this will not end well for our misty-eyed Misty.

Bonus Question: What do you think of Peter's mother thus far? Saint or devil?

So, first quarter of the book? I'm liking it. I've got some answers and lots more questions. I'll be reading pages 67-132 this week. If you've finished the book already, sit tight and prepare yourself for voting on next month's book.


PS: If you liked the personification of emotion (ie: "Just for the record, the weather today is partly suspicious with chances of betrayal." Page 56 in my hardcover copy) which I loved, then you are going to want to seek out the lyrical prowess of Tom Waits and his song "Emotional Weather Report" from the 1975 release of his album "Nighthawks at the Diner". Look up the lyrics at the very least for such gems as:

"...when the thunderstorms start
increasing over the southeast
and southcentral portions
of my apartment, I get upset..."