Carol by Patricia Highsmith

Summary

Carol by Patricia Highsmith follows the tender and suspenseful love affair between Therese, a young aspiring set designer, and Carol, an elegant older woman going through a difficult divorce. Set in 1950s New York, their romance unfolds against a backdrop of societal disapproval and personal risk. Through nuanced characterizations, the novel captures the exhilaration and fear of forbidden love, exploring themes of identity, longing, and self-acceptance.

Life-Changing Lessons

1. Love requires courage and authenticity, especially when faced with social prejudice.

2. Discovering your true self can come through relationships that challenge your comfort zone.

3. Sometimes, pursuing happiness involves sacrifice and risk, but it is essential for personal freedom.

Publishing year and rating

The book was published in: 1952

AI Rating (from 0 to 100): 93

Practical Examples

1. Therese meets Carol at the toy store.

   The novel's inciting incident occurs when Therese, working in the toy department of a department store, is captivated by Carol, an elegant woman searching for a Christmas gift for her daughter. This chance encounter marks the beginning of an intense emotional connection, setting the stage for their ensuing relationship.

2. Therese receives a mysterious gift from Carol.

   After their first meeting, Carol sends Therese a gift—a set of gloves—which delights and surprises her. This gesture signifies Carol's reciprocal interest and serves as a catalyst for further contact, deepening their connection while highlighting the tentative nature of their burgeoning romance.

3. The road trip across America.

   Carol and Therese embark on a cross-country road trip, which becomes a symbol of their escape from the constraints of society and their personal entanglements. On the journey, their emotional and physical relationship intensifies, but the stresses and dangers of being followed and surveilled also rise.

4. Therese confronted by Carol’s husband.

   At one point, Carol’s husband, Harge, uses their relationship as leverage in the messy custody battle over their daughter. He hires a detective to follow the women and even threatens Carol with legal action, casting a shadow of fear and forcing the lovers to confront the painful consequences of their choices.

5. Therese’s moment of self-realization.

   Towards the novel’s end, Therese must choose between her old life and the possibilities of a future with Carol. After a period of self-reflection and heartbreak, Therese asserts her independence and makes a bold choice to pursue happiness on her own terms, signifying her personal growth and self-acceptance.