The Red-Haired Woman
The Red-Haired Woman
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Book Summary
| From the Nobel Prize winner and best-selling author of Snow and My Name Is Red, a fable of fathers and sons and the desires that come between them. On the outskirts of a town thirty miles from Istanbul, a master well digger and his young apprentice are hired to find water on a barren plain. As they struggle in the summer heat, excavating meter by meter, the two will develop a filial bond neither has known before -not the poor middle-aged bachelor nor the middle-class boy whose father disappeared after being arrested for politically subversive activities. The pair will come to depend on each other and exchange stories reflecting disparate views of the world. But in the nearby town, where they buy provisions and take their evening break, the boy will find an irresistible diversion. The Red-Haired Woman, an alluring member of a travelling theatre company, catches his eye and seems as fascinated by him as he is by her. The young man’s wildest dream will be realized, but, when in his distraction a horrible accident befalls the well digger, the boy will flee, returning to Istanbul. Only years later will he discover whether he was in fact responsible for his master’s death and who the redheaded enchantress was. |
Language: English
Paperback: 288 pages
ISBN-10: 0571330320
ISBN-13: 9780571330324
Genre: Popular Fiction
Size: 13 cm x 20.2 cm
Shipping Weight: 44 grams
Condition: New
Out of stock
The Red-Haired Woman
The Red-Haired Woman Book Description
In this haunting fable, Nobel laureate Orhan Pamuk tells the story of a master well‑digger and his young apprentice, hired to find water on a barren plain thirty miles from Istanbul. The scorching summer forces them to dig meter by meter, and a deep, unexpected bond forms between the middle‑aged bachelor and the boy whose father vanished after a political arrest. Their friendship grows as they share stories that reveal contrasting views of the world.
Meanwhile, the nearby town offers a brief respite where the apprentice discovers a travelling theatre troupe. Among the performers, a striking red‑haired woman captivates his imagination. She becomes more than a distraction; she embodies the apprentice’s wildest dream of escape and romance. Their fleeting connection sparks hope, but a sudden accident silences the master well‑digger.
However, fear drives the young man back to Istanbul, leaving many questions unanswered. Years later, he returns to the plain, haunted by guilt and curiosity. He must decide whether his actions contributed to his master’s death and uncover the true identity of the enigmatic Red‑Haired Woman.
Key Features of The Red-Haired Woman
Fans of literary fiction will appreciate Pamuk’s lyrical prose and rich historical backdrop. The novel weaves themes of fatherhood, loyalty, and the clash between personal desire and duty. Additionally, the setting—an arid Turkish landscape—mirrors the characters’ internal thirst for meaning. Moreover, the story balances youthful longing with the weight of adult responsibility, offering readers a layered emotional experience.
Furthermore, Pamuk’s reputation as the author of Snow and My Name Is Red adds depth to the narrative. His Nobel Prize background assures a thoughtful exploration of cultural and political tension. The Red‑Haired Woman also presents vivid, memorable characters that stay with readers long after the final page.
Why Read This Book?
Readers will discover a tale that feels both timeless and intimately modern. The plot moves steadily, allowing the mystery surrounding the master’s accident to unfold naturally. Because each chapter reveals new facets of the characters, the novel maintains a steady rhythm that keeps the audience engaged.
Additionally, the book offers insight into Turkish rural life and the complexities of post‑World‑II society. Meanwhile, the romance with the theatrical performer adds a sensual, almost magical element that contrasts with the harsh physical labor of well‑digging. This blend of realism and enchantment makes the reading experience both grounded and dreamy.
About This Book
Language: English
Paperback: 288 pages
ISBN‑10: 0571330320
ISBN‑13: 9780571330324
Genre: Popular Fiction
Size: 13 cm × 20.2 cm
Shipping Weight: 44 grams
Condition: New
For more details about the author and reader reviews, visit the Goodreads page. Explore additional titles in our collection through the English Books link.
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