grace Murray’s “Blank Canvas” explores the Complex Truths Behind Deception
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A new literary voice emerges with Grace Murray’s debut novel, “Blank Canvas,” a compelling exploration of the motivations behind lies and the unexpected truths they can reveal. The novel doesn’t simply focus on the act of deception,but delves into the psychological needs a liar attempts to meet when material gain isn’t the driving force.
A Lie Takes Root in Upstate New York
The story unfolds at a small liberal arts college in upstate New York, where Charlotte initiates a dramatic deception at the start of her final year: she falsely claims her father has died of a heart attack, despite him being alive and well in Lichfield, England. This lie isn’t a plot device for financial or social advantage, but rather the catalyst for a deep dive into Charlotte’s inner world and the advancement of her relationship with fellow student Katarina.Their connection forms the central narrative thread of the book.
Satire and Psychological Acuity
Murray’s writing is characterized by “an energising precision and originality,” skillfully blending satire with profound psychological acuity.The novel masterfully highlights Katarina’s “buoyant sweetness” against Charlotte’s “coldness.”
This narrative approach, centered on a detached narrator, coudl easily fall flat, creating distance between the reader and the story.However, Murray appears acutely aware of this risk. Charlotte herself acknowledges her own emotional void, stating: “Lying was one of the only things I did for myself, the only time I felt active, a real person, and I was good at it. But it was just another absence, this inability to be honest.”
A Voice That Evolves
Initially, Charlotte’s dissociation might feel somewhat exaggerated – as illustrated by a passage describing a potentially emotional moment: “When I came back, Lars was waiting for me, phone still in hand. I might have been crying – red-rimmed,a raw,bloated face – but it was hard to tell. I might have been fine.” yet, rather than weakening the narrative, this stylistic choice builds in power over time. The cumulative effect is a “subtle shift” as the novel progresses,marked by a “gradual increase in depth and emotion.” Later in the story, Charlotte displays a newfound empathy, attributing her change in perspective to Katarina: “Before her, nobody had a context. She had opened me up to it, to the idea of the man’s twin bed, his daily teeter over to the sink, fluoxetine prescription in his cabinet.” By the novel’s conclusion, Charlotte’s narration transforms from deliberately alienating to profoundly moving.
A Nuanced resolution
Murray avoids a simplistic or overly sentimental ending, a testament to her “characteristic discernment.” the author does introduce a significant revelation in the final quarter of the book, intended as a partial explanation for Charlotte’s initial lie.However, one reviewer suggests the novel might have been stronger without this element, or at least without presenting it as a late-stage reveal, as it felt somewhat “underexplored.” Despite this minor reservation, Murray demonstrates “keen narrative instincts and a perfect ear for prose.”
A Remarkable Debut
The author’s youth – just 22 at the time of publication – is noteworthy, though the reviewer is reluctant to dwell on it. Still, it’s remarkable that Murray likely wrote much of the novel before reaching the legal drinking age in the country where it’s set. Ultimately, this is not a qualification, but rather an indication of extraordinary talent. “Blank Canvas” is, unequivocally, a “superb debut” from a writer of any age.
“Blank Canvas” by Grace Murray is published by Fig Tree (£14.99). To support the Guardian, order your copy at guardianbookshop.com. Delivery charges may apply.
