One-line Summary:
“On Beauty” is a thought-provoking novel that explores themes of race, identity, and beauty through the lives of two families.
The Clash of Ideals
“On Beauty” by Zadie Smith delves into the lives of two families, the Belseys and the Kipps, who are brought together through a series of unexpected events. Set in the fictional town of Wellington, Massachusetts, the novel explores the clash of ideals between the liberal Belseys and the conservative Kipps. The story revolves around the complex relationships, personal struggles, and the pursuit of beauty in various forms.
The Belseys, led by Howard Belsey, a white Englishman and professor of art history, embody liberal values and intellectualism. Howard’s wife, Kiki, is a strong-willed African-American woman who challenges his views. Together, they have three children: Jerome, Zora, and Levi. On the other hand, the Kipps family represents traditional values and religious beliefs. Monty Kipps, a Trinidadian-British academic, is Howard’s professional rival and ideological opposite.
Identity and Beauty
Throughout the novel, Smith explores the concept of identity and its connection to beauty. The characters grapple with their own insecurities and societal pressures, trying to fit into predetermined standards of beauty. Kiki, for instance, struggles with her weight and the societal expectations placed on women. She finds solace in her own self-acceptance and challenges the notion that beauty is solely based on physical appearance.
Jerome, the Belsey’s eldest son, embarks on a journey of self-discovery and racial identity. He questions his place in society as a biracial individual and explores the complexities of race and beauty. Meanwhile, Zora, their ambitious daughter, becomes entangled in a relationship with Victoria Kipps, Monty’s daughter. Their relationship highlights the clash between their families’ values and challenges societal norms.
The Complexity of Relationships
Smith skillfully portrays the intricacies of relationships in “On Beauty.” The marriages of both families are tested as infidelity and secrets come to light. Howard’s affair with a colleague, Claire, strains his relationship with Kiki, while Monty’s infidelity threatens his marriage to Carlene. These betrayals force the characters to confront their own flaws and question the true meaning of love and commitment.
The novel also explores the complexities of friendship and loyalty. Jerome forms an unlikely friendship with Victoria, despite their families’ differences. Their bond transcends societal expectations and challenges the notion of friendship based on shared values. Similarly, Howard’s relationship with his former mentor, Sir Monty, is tested as their professional rivalry spills into their personal lives.
Key Takeaways:
- Beauty is not solely defined by physical appearance but by self-acceptance and individuality.
- Identity is a complex concept influenced by societal expectations and personal struggles.
- Relationships are multifaceted and require honesty, forgiveness, and self-reflection.
“Beauty is not the goal of competitive sports, but high-level sports are a prime venue for the expression of human beauty. The relation is roughly that of courage to war.” – Zadie Smith
In “On Beauty,” Zadie Smith masterfully explores the clash of ideals, the complexities of relationships, and the pursuit of beauty. Through the lives of the Belseys and the Kipps, the novel delves into themes of race, identity, and the true meaning of beauty. Smith’s thought-provoking narrative challenges societal norms and encourages readers to question their own perceptions of beauty and the world around them.
