The End

Part three of this novel seems rather ironic throughout. In fact, a lot of irony is portrayed throughout Michael's connection with Gertrund, his correspondence with Hanna, and her eventual suicide. I found it ironic that he chooses to settle down with a wife and a child, but can't seem to actually be emotionally involved in it. I also found it ironic how, while he hated Hanna for her actions, he still wrote and spoke to her regularly as if to want to keep in touch as lovers. I found it ironic how she eventually committed suicide on the day of her release. And finally, I found it ironic how his readings were mainly about the holocaust, and his sending of the tapes made it seem like he's trying to badger her, to make her feel guilty, and to prove to himself that he's better than her.

Overall, I found the book weird. I didn't enjoy it to be honest, but it wasn't a bad read. There were some really racy and extreme topics that were touched on and criticized, but all just topics nonetheless. These types of books are interesting to read for the interactions the main character has with others and the conflict he has over himself.