One-line Summary:
In “Find Me,” a sequel to “Call Me By Your Name,” André Aciman explores the themes of love, loss, and self-discovery through the perspectives of Elio, Oliver, and Elio’s father, Samuel.
The Journey of Elio:
In “Find Me,” the sequel to the critically acclaimed novel “Call Me By Your Name,” André Aciman takes readers on a journey through the lives of Elio, Oliver, and Elio’s father, Samuel. The story is divided into four parts, each focusing on a different character and their experiences with love, longing, and self-discovery.
The first part of the book follows Elio, now in his late twenties, as he navigates his way through a new relationship with Michel, a lawyer who is significantly older than him. Elio finds himself torn between his feelings for Michel and his lingering memories of Oliver, the love of his youth. As he grapples with the complexities of love and desire, Elio must confront his own fears and insecurities in order to find happiness.
The Return of Oliver:
The second part of the book shifts the focus to Oliver, who is now a professor in New England. Despite having moved on with his life, Oliver is haunted by his past and the intense connection he shared with Elio. When he unexpectedly reunites with Elio in Rome, old feelings resurface, and they are forced to confront the unresolved emotions that have lingered for years.
As Oliver and Elio spend time together, they reflect on the choices they made and the paths they have taken. They grapple with the question of whether it is possible to recapture the magic of their past or if they should embrace the present and move forward.
The Journey of Samuel:
The third part of the book introduces Samuel, Elio’s father, who embarks on his own journey of self-discovery. Recently divorced and feeling adrift, Samuel travels to Rome, where he meets Miranda, a young woman who captivates him with her intellect and beauty. Through their encounters, Samuel rediscovers his own capacity for love and passion, challenging his preconceived notions about age and desire.
As the story unfolds, Aciman weaves together the narratives of Elio, Oliver, and Samuel, exploring the complexities of human connection and the ways in which love can shape and transform our lives. Through their experiences, the characters grapple with the passage of time, the pain of loss, and the power of self-discovery.
Key Takeaways:
- Love and desire can be both beautiful and complex, often leading to moments of self-discovery and growth.
- The passage of time does not diminish the impact of past relationships; they continue to shape our lives and influence our choices.
- Embracing the present and finding happiness in the moment is essential for personal growth and fulfillment.
“We rip out so much of ourselves to be cured of things faster than we should that we go bankrupt by the age of thirty and have less to offer each time we start with someone new. But to feel nothing so as not to feel anything—what a waste!” – André Aciman
In “Find Me,” André Aciman masterfully captures the complexities of love, longing, and self-discovery. Through the perspectives of Elio, Oliver, and Samuel, he explores the enduring impact of past relationships and the power of embracing the present. With its lyrical prose and poignant storytelling, “Find Me” is a captivating sequel that delves into the depths of the human heart.
