Review

🍃 The Stranger is the first novel by Albert Camus. It was originally written in French and called L'Étranger when it was published in 1942. Later, the book was given two different English titles—The Outsider in the UK and The Stranger in the US.

🍁 The Stranger is a deeply philosophical work that asks readers to think about the nature of existence, identity, and the meaning of life. The plot revolves around Meursault, an ordinary man whose feelings and reactions frequently appear disconnected from what society expects. The book's appeal stems from his character's simplicity.

🍂 What makes this novel so striking is its exploration of the human condition through a lens that feels raw and unfiltered. Meursault does not exhibit the typical patterns of conduct or emotional responses that most people do. Instead, he lives life in an almost impersonal manner, which is both unnerving and interesting. Through his experiences, he invites us to question why individuals behave the way they do and what it truly means to live truthfully.

🌱 Camus' writing style is straightforward and direct. There is no superfluous complications, but each word feels purposeful. He creates an atmosphere that is both harsh and quietly compelling, forcing the reader to think twice about how they approach life and the decisions they make.

🌸 The Stranger's central theme is the absurdity of existence—the idea that life does not always provide us with simple solutions or explanations. However, despite its simplicity, the work conveys a powerful feeling of truth. It serves as a reminder that the solutions we seek are sometimes discovered in the peaceful moments of life rather than huge intellectual conceptions.

🌷 This is a novel that stays with you. It doesn't provide easy answers or happy ends, but it does raise questions that stay with you long after you finish the novel. The Stranger is more than just a story; it is a reflection on life itself, encouraging us to think critically about the world and our place within it.

🖨 Edition Suggestion: People often argue about which translation is the best, but if you're just looking for a good version to enjoy the story, most of them are okay. However, I can say that Ward’s translation is written very well.