Log 4

 log4

Plot Summary:

Achilles and Patroclus were thirteen years old in the twinkling of an eye, which was time for a man to marry. However, they had no interest in the women. One day, unable to endure his affection any longer, Patroclus kissed Achilles. Then Achilles' mother, the goddess Thetis witnessed the moment, feeling displeased so that prematurely sent Achilles on his cultivation journey. Later, due to Patroclus’s nostalgia and fear of being lonely, he fled from the palace and hurriedly caught up. Fortunately, Achilles' teacher, Chiron, a centaur, accepted him, and so they embarked on their cultivation journey together. Chiron was omniscient that he taught them all things in the world, especially survival skills. One day, a summon informed them back to the palace, an imminent war was approaching.

Reflection:

In chapter 7, the author used a writing technique, weaving sentences together like a net. She alternated between the old king telling the story of Meleager and Achilles tricking Patroclus, which gave me a vivid sense of depth to the story.

Also, I think this story might foreshadow subsequent story developments, perhaps symbolizing the perish of a nation and Achilles' internal conflict about his duty as warrior and his pursuit of music.

The author artistically portrays the love between men. Especially the kissing scene in chapter 7, when Patroclus takes the initiative to kiss Achilles, the imagery of honey evokes a sense of longing. Patroclus’s tension before kissing, along with Achilles' hasty runaway, add the bittersweet feeling of an immature love.

“I lean forward and our lips land clumsily on each other. They are like the fat bodies of bees, soft and round and giddy with pollen. I can taste his mouth—hot and sweet with honey from dessert…”

In chapter 10, the author devoted a significant portion to describing making love between Patroclus and Achilles, as if inviting readers to savor this moment. The author's words are subtle but concrete, leaving plenty of room for imagination.

”…was outlined against the painted stars; Polaris sat on his shoulder. His hand slipped over the quickened rise and fall of my belly’s breathing…Slowly, like dusk-fall, I became aware of my sweat, the dampness of the covers, and the wetness that slid between our bellies.”

There has always been a lot of same-sex love content in Greek mythology. Perhaps the author wanted to raise people's awareness of diverse love, or to cater to some specific readerships. Regardless, I find the author's portrayal very romantic. Although I have read books of this genre before, this book has made me more interested in this theme.