Seeing the main character's relations with Hanna really puts social norms and views into perspective. For some odd reason, they love each other. Society believes that it is strange that a young teenager could have a sexual and romantic relationship with someone over twice his age. Even the two lovers are apprehensive when seeing each other in public (Hanna more so than Michael). This kind of social conflict and social ideology is something that a young teenager shouldn't have thrust upon him. Normally, someone that young would fuck it up and create a situation that neither person could enjoy. But, to be honest, Michael handled it like a pro. He did try to make the relationship public, but otherwise he did a pretty good job at keeping in the social norms.
To be honest, Michael experienced events that would likely be found in the life of a middle aged man. He essentially cheated on his "wife", lost interest in his "mistress," and was "divorced" by his "wife". That alone can make up a lifetime's worth of relationship experience. But this kid is experiences it in a matter of two years.
This part is definitely a social commentary. It shows the reader the taboos of society (relationships with a large age difference, relationships with underage partners, affairs, and to an extent, marriage and divorce) and makes them seem normal, almost common occurrences in both everyday life and in young adult life.
I thought the reading was interesting, to say the least. It wasn't exactly "PG" material, but it's a very important aspect of society to touch upon, and provides an excellent criticism of traditional love and marriages. I am interested in finding out why Hanna just suddenly disappeared one day. Definitely some elements of Kafka can be found in this novel. I'm looking forward to reading the next two parts!
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