In spite of, because of. . Review on GodFather, The - Mario Puzo

If the title intrigues you, it is because this is not a book easily written about. There are many ideas, and many more feelings associated with it. I first read it 10 years ago, because it was recommended to me. And I have loved it since, in spite of the fact that it is cool to like it and even cooler to snub it. (Too mainstream. Too simplistic.) Hence the title.

I would consider my task on earth fulfilled if I could cajole, nag or bore you into reading The Godfather.

Why? Because it is a story well-told. It is a story about the mafia, one of the earliest,the beginning of an entire genre. And, even with a subject as purportedly negative as the criminal underbelly, it never once tries to pass judgement.

Instead, make of it what you will-understand the mostly grey, and very human, characters. And know the reasons behind their choices.

It could do easily have been just about Italian immigrants struggling to find their roots in America. Or how the society plays more than a small part in the thriving business that is the underworld.

Instead, it is a story about bare emotions- and the tragedies and triumphs they lead us to.The Don’s resigned understanding. Sonny’s fierce loyalty. Fredo’s weakness. And Michael’s as well.

The weakness that changes him from an idealistic young soldier to a man who destroys himself for the sake of family.

Mario Puzo writes simply. No fuss, very few frills and a story to tell. He is said to have calledThe Godfather one of his least favourite books. And one of the most flawed ones.

The rest of the world obviously doesn’t agree.