Belzhar Summary & Key Insights

Meg Wolitzer's "Belzhar" follows the tumultuous journey of 16-year-old Therese Olivarez as she navigates grief, trauma, and the complexities of identity following the suicide of her boyfriend, Reeve. The novel unfolds within the framework of a creative writing class, "Death and the Afterlife," led by the enigmatic Professor Larkin. This class acts as both a therapeutic space and a driving force in Therese's journey of healing.

Therese's life dramatically shifts after Reeve's death. She spirals into a deep depression, experiencing a sense of detachment and losing her sense of self. Her best friend, her sister, and even her parents seem distant, unable to fully comprehend her pain. Professor Larkin, however, sees something in Therese and personally invites her to join his unconventional class. This class, filled with other emotionally troubled students, becomes a haven for Therese.

The class's structure involves exploring grief through creative writing exercises and intimate group discussions. Each student, including Therese, shares their experiences of loss and trauma, creating a powerful sense of shared vulnerability and understanding. The unusual setting of the class—which sometimes involves fantastical elements bordering on magical realism— further enhances this exploration. Therese starts to piece together her memories and feelings, connecting to others who share similar experiences of loss.

Another key character is the charismatic and enigmatic Professor Larkin, who acts as a mentor and confidant to Therese and her classmates. While he offers guidance and support, there are also hints of his own past trauma and complexities, mirroring those of his students. His unconventional teaching methods push the students to confront their grief in unconventional, creative ways. The line between reality and the imagined worlds explored in the class is frequently blurred, leaving the reader questioning the nature of Therese's experiences.

Through the narrative, Therese gradually starts to heal. She explores her relationship with Reeve, questioning what went wrong and confronting the guilt and regret that plague her. She also begins to reconnect with her family and her best friend, recognizing their own struggles in coping with Reeve's death. The novel's magical realism elements, though initially jarring, function as metaphors for the complexities of grief and the ways in which the human mind processes trauma. Ultimately, "Belzhar" isn't about overcoming grief completely but rather about learning to live with it and finding solace, healing, and a renewed sense of self amidst the pain. The overarching themes of grief, healing, and the power of art and connection intertwine throughout the novel, offering a nuanced and ultimately hopeful portrayal of a young woman's journey through trauma.