“Call Me By Your Name” by André Aciman is a poetic masterpiece that explores the intricacies of desire, identity, and the timeless essence of love. Set against the sun-kissed backdrop of a small Italian town, Aciman weaves a tale that transcends boundaries and captures the essence of a summer romance.
Elio, a precocious 17-year-old, spends his summers in the idyllic Italian villa where his family hosts a revolving door of academic guests. It’s here that he meets Oliver, a charismatic and enigmatic 24-year-old graduate student. From the moment their paths cross, their connection crackles with electricity, setting the stage for a love story that is as beautiful as it is heart-wrenching.
Aciman’s prose is nothing short of breathtaking. He invites readers to delve deep into the minds of Elio and Oliver, painting a vivid and intimate picture of their burgeoning desires and fears. The narrative unfolds through Elio’s introspective and sensuous first-person perspective, allowing readers to intimately experience his emotions, longings, and confusions. Aciman’s writing captures the intensity of young love with an authenticity that is both raw and achingly beautiful.
One of the novel’s most remarkable achievements is its portrayal of queer love. Elio’s journey of self-discovery and the exploration of his burgeoning bisexuality are portrayed with nuance and sensitivity. Aciman deftly captures the complexities of Elio’s emotions as he grapples with his attraction to Oliver, defying societal norms and expectations. Their love story is free from judgment, offering a refreshing perspective on the fluidity of sexuality.
The Italian setting, with its languid summers, plays a pivotal role in the novel. Aciman’s descriptions of the lush countryside, the crystal-clear waters, and the sensual pleasures of Italian culture are nothing short of mesmerizing. The landscape becomes a reflection of the characters’ inner turmoil and desires, a canvas upon which their love story unfolds. It’s impossible not to be transported to this sun-soaked paradise, feeling the warmth on your skin and the gentle breezes of passion in the air.
At the heart of “Call Me By Your Name” is the exploration of desire and vulnerability. Elio and Oliver’s relationship is built on stolen glances, furtive touches, and the unspoken understanding that they share something profound. Aciman captures the intensity of their connection, making it impossible for readers not to empathize with the ache of their hidden desires. As their love story unfolds over a single summer, it becomes a timeless testament to the power of passion and the enduring impact of first love.
However, this is not just a story of romance; it’s a narrative that delves into the intricacies of human connection and the passage of time. Elio’s musings on love, longing, and loss resonate long after the final page is turned. It’s a poignant reminder that some loves remain eternally imprinted on the soul.
“Call Me By Your Name” by André Aciman is a remarkable exploration of love in all its complexities. It’s a book that defies categorization, transcending the boundaries of genre and capturing the essence of a profound and transformative love story. This novel is a must-read for anyone who seeks a deep, emotional journey that celebrates the beauty of queer love and the universal experience of falling in love for the first time. Aciman’s prose is an invitation to be swept away in the intoxicating whirlwind of desire, and his characters will linger in your heart long after you’ve finished reading.
Queer Book Club 