Memoirs Of A Geisha

'Never judge a book by its cover' is the famous phrase that comes to mind when thinking about this novel.

When I bought this book I wasn't sure what to expect. Many writers who set stories during the period of the 20th Century make the mistake of writing excessive detail in such a way that the reader struggles to identify with the character and finds themselves completely uninterested in what the writer is saying. I am such a reader. I can be impatient and often lose interest quickly when reading long paragraphs of description. This novel however is an exception.

First of all it is so beautifully written throughout the entire novel that it seems to overshadow the dark sorrow the character feels throughout her lifetime. Many exquisite yet practical metaphors are used, taking ideas from everyday occurrences and turning them into metaphors as you might imagine a caterpillar turning into a butterfly.

The main character `Chiyo' or `Sayuri' is a complex and absolutely enthralling character. A mixture of intelligence and helplessness, she is observant yet ignorant of what is happening around her. You can't help but feel that the character has no control over anything that happens to her and the voice of the character ties you with her from the very beginning.

Each time the character joked I saw the funny side of it. Each time the character was in pain I felt it. I've never read such a descriptive yet addictive read. This story focuses on almost the whole of this characters lifespan right from her childhood being sold to the `Okiyo' to train as a Geisha right through to later parts of her life. She survives many hardships and much of her life in the `Okiyo' is made miserable by the lovable but cruel and bitter `Hatsumomo'. Even later when she is free of her enemy she has to survive further poverty and the effects of the second world war on Japanese life. Each and every character was written to be unique and Sayuri observes them all with frustration, sadness and humour.

Nothing wanders aimlessly in this story although it seems endless. All the paths lead to a pivotal point for the main character and a personal choice that keeps the reader hanging on the edge of their seat waiting for the character's reactions. When Sayuri at last chooses to take control of her life I was shocked by the choice she made causing me to question the perceptions I had built up of the character and evaluate just what she was capable of.

If you want to read a book that will keep you waiting for more in an impossible love story that seems a dream-like fantasy but which is dragged back into reality at every turn then this is a great read. I believed in this story throughout the whole novel and was surprised by the writer's deviousness at the end. (If you read the ending and acknowledgments you will know what I mean) Funny, brilliant, great use of imagery and metaphors. I barely put this book down from the moment I picked it up until I reached the last page. This is a wonderful read that transports you into the heart of the life of the geisha Sayuri.

Don't overlook this book. The cover is beautiful with the pale geisha face, the long black hair and the lush red lips but what lies within the words is a world of depth and brilliance surrounding a life filled with suffering and obedience.