What if we are made out of magic? Now, let’s assume for once that the world we live in is charmed, made of unperceivable channels, deeply coiled and bound by translucent threads of vivid colors that cannot be assessed by our limited cerebral thinking; governed by its own limitations.
Imagine if we had the power to see beyond, to experience a myriad of physical transformations not bound by time but at will without subjugation, an ability to conjure anything, a universe embellished and weaved with ornate colors. A world of illusions, covered by a transparent veil, where discernment of reality from dream is questionable. Unbelievable, right?
Welcome to ‘The Night Circus’ by Erin Morgenstern. The author weaves a descriptive tale full of illumination, glimmer and intrigue. One cannot miss the vivid characterization, the plot is beautifully etched, portrayed like a loop, where one gets enmeshed and embroiled in the labyrinth of unprecedented events leaving the reader asking for more.
The prose is meticulously refined and brilliantly executed that flawlessly carries the story forward. The plot revolves around the circus ‘Le Cirque des Rêves’. It is peculiar in many ways. It operates from dusk to dawn, solely functions on magic and has an innate ability to charm and hypnotize the spectators who, time and again, are pulled by its sheer magnetism and opulence. The black and white stripped tents promise a mirage of desires and dreams fulfilled. Each tent comprising of a performance that is unparalleled and supreme. Within the core and depth of the circus lies a scheming game warped with manipulations and tribulations between the two main protagonists Marco and Celia.
The fate of the entire circus is delicately balanced on the outcome of the game that is played between the main protagonists, with a clause in the contract stating that only the invincible one will emerge as the winner. Both the illusionists are gifted with distinguished skillsets and are at par with each other. The lives of all people associated with the circus relies on the one wielding the show. A tale so soulful with its branches precariously entwined and interspersed with situations that will leave you spellbound.
What will eventually be the outcome of this game? Will Marco and Celia’s love survive the onslaught of challenges? Will the circus survive or perish?