The Deeper the Water the Uglier the Fish is a novel written by Katya Apekina. It was published in 2018 by Two Dollar Radio. The novel revolves around a family’s dysfunctional dynamics and how they deal with mental health issues. The story takes place in New York City and Louisiana.
Plot
The novel starts with the introduction of Edie, who is seventeen years old and her younger sister Mae. Their mother, Marianne, is a famous novelist who is in a mental institution. Their father, Dennis, has moved out and is living with his new girlfriend. Edie and Mae are forced to leave their apartment in New York City and move to Louisiana to live with their estranged father and his new girlfriend.
Edie and Mae’s relationship is complex, strained and competitive. Edie is the older, more responsible sister who feels responsible for Mae’s well-being. Mae, on the other hand, is rebellious and unpredictable. The sisters struggle to adjust to their new environment and their new family dynamics.
Dennis is struggling to deal with his own issues and is unable to provide emotional support to his daughters. His girlfriend, Leah, is a recovering addict and is trying to rebuild her life. As the story progresses, it is revealed that Marianne has been having an affair with a young girl named Patra, who is also pregnant with Marianne’s child.
Themes
The novel deals with several themes such as mental illness, family dynamics, sexual identity, and the search for identity. The characters in the novel are all struggling with their own demons and insecurities. They are all trying to find their place in the world and to define themselves.
The novel also explores the complexities of relationships, both romantic and familial. It shows how difficult it can be to maintain relationships when there are underlying issues and unresolved conflicts. The novel also highlights the importance of communication and honesty in any relationship.
Style
The Deeper the Water the Uglier the Fish is written in a unique style. The novel is narrated from different perspectives, which allows the reader to get a glimpse into each character’s thoughts and feelings. The prose is poetic and lyrical, which adds to the overall mood of the novel. The use of imagery and symbolism also adds depth to the story.
The novel is divided into three parts, each focusing on a different character. This structure allows the reader to develop a deeper understanding of each character and their motivations.
Reception
The Deeper the Water the Uglier the Fish has received positive reviews from critics. The novel has been praised for its unique style, character development, and exploration of complex themes.
The novel was longlisted for the Center for Fiction’s First Novel Prize in 2018. It was also named one of the best books of 2018 by The New York Public Library, The Boston Globe, and The Paris Review.
Conclusion
The Deeper the Water the Uglier the Fish is a beautifully written novel that explores complex issues with sensitivity and depth. The novel highlights the importance of communication, honesty, and understanding in any relationship. The characters in the novel are flawed and complex, which makes them relatable and human.
If you are looking for a thought-provoking and beautifully written novel, then The Deeper the Water the Uglier the Fish is definitely worth reading.