Found on every Barnes & Noble BookTok table since 2011, “The Song of Achilles” is recognizable for most young adult readers. With an author like Madeline Miller — known for her poeticism and wit — the book attracts an audience that spans from Greek mythology nerds to anyone looking for a worthwhile read. In fact, as of Jan. 19, 2021, #songofachilles on TikTok has reached a staggering 111.6 million views. For a reader with little knowledge of the subject matter, Miller’s writing provides a holistic perspective. Retelling Homeric poetry with her own creative twist, she bends ancient Greece and Troy into a beautiful landscape with well-defined characters who represent humanity across time and space.
In short, the novel’s protagonists, Patroclus and Achilles, challenge the status quo with their tumultuous romance — making for a riveting read. Miller does not disappoint with “The Song of Achilles,” but rather envelops readers in a world far removed from modern society. After reading her well-respected “Circe,” another book which deserves considerable admiration, it becomes clear that many of the characters and events are intertwined in a way that makes the entire narrative more vivid.
“The Song of Achilles” takes place around the 12th century BCE in Homer’s “The Iliad.” Patroclus, the main protagonist and Achilles’s soulmate, narrates a tale of star-crossed lovers bound by a god-spoken prophecy. From fragile boyhoods to the Trojan War, they navigate their relationship during a period of large-scale change. When called to fight, both men must give up everything they have known for the sake of wealth, power and reputation. This leads to twists and turns that confound the reader in every chapter, encouraging them to understand the characters’ mindsets without completely adopting them.
As always, Miller wrote in a truly transportive style that paints the leaves on every tree without going overboard. In a universe so unlike today’s, her writing brings life to everything from Apollo to Helen of Troy, infamous for being the “most beautiful woman in the world.” Detailed descriptions coupled with twisted narratives produce a dynamic tale that — unlike many others — stays unpredictable and captivating until its end.
Miller also showcased her talent for developing realistic, multi-faceted characters. Achilles’ hubris and Patroclus’ humble nature make for a beautiful contrast that exemplifies the “opposites attract” romantic trope. The greed exhibited by powerful kings like Agamemnon and Menelaus is justified when taking into consideration historical context. No character exists without a vice, and even those who make brief appearances have rich backstories.
Miller’s rendition of this tragic Greek tale made for a wild ride. It showcases real mythology and describes the art that accompanies it, which is due in no small part to Miller’s descriptive prowess. For someone with little knowledge of Achilles, Patroclus or the Trojan War, it is easy to travel into the story — a difficult feat even for books considered contemporary. Setting, characters and relationships combine in a way that makes “The Song of Achilles” valuable to anyone looking for a wondrous escape from reality.
Edited by Lucy Valeski | lvaleski@themaneater.com
