We Are All Completely Beside Ourselves is a compelling novel by Karen Joy Fowler that explores themes of family, identity, trauma, and the complexity of human relationships. This novel has captivated readers with its inventive narrative structure and emotionally charged storytelling. In this article, we will provide a comprehensive summary of the novel, highlighting its key plot points, character developments, and thematic elements to give readers a thorough understanding of this thought-provoking work.
Introduction to the Novel
We Are All Completely Beside Ourselves was published in 2013 and quickly gained critical acclaim, including the 2014 PEN/Faulkner Award for Fiction. The novel is narrated by Rosemary Cooke, a college student grappling with her past and the secrets that have shaped her life. Through her perspective, the reader is introduced to her unique family dynamics, which include a mysterious missing sister and a controversial experiment involving her pet chimpanzee, Fern. The novel’s structure weaves past and present seamlessly, revealing the complex layers of Rosemary's life.
Overview of the Plot
Introduction to Rosemary's Family
The story begins with Rosemary describing her childhood and her close relationship with her parents, Lowell and Fern. She introduces her brother, Lowell, and her sister, Fern, who was a chimpanzee raised as a human child as part of a psychological experiment. The family’s life is intertwined with scientific research, which adds a layer of moral ambiguity and emotional complexity.
The Experiment and Fern's Role
Fern’s presence in the family is central to the story. Raised alongside Rosemary, Fern was intended to be a scientific subject but became an integral part of the family. The novel explores the ethical dilemmas of raising a chimpanzee as a human and the emotional bonds that develop between Fern and the family members.
The Disappearance of Fern and Family Secrets
A pivotal moment occurs when Fern is taken away from the family, leading to a series of events that deeply affect Rosemary. The reason behind Fern's removal is gradually revealed, exposing a web of secrets and lies. This event marks a turning point in Rosemary’s life and sets the stage for her struggles with guilt, loss, and identity.
Present Day and the Unraveling of the Past
As Rosemary navigates her college life, she begins to confront her childhood memories and the truths hidden for years. The narrative shifts between her present experiences and reflections on her past, allowing readers to piece together the full story of Fern, her family, and herself.
Key Characters and Their Roles
Rosemary Cooke
The protagonist and narrator, Rosemary is a thoughtful, introspective young woman whose perspective shapes the entire story. Her internal conflicts and evolving understanding of her family are central to the novel’s emotional impact.
Fern
The chimpanzee at the heart of the story, Fern symbolizes innocence, the ethical dilemmas of scientific experimentation, and the bonds that can form across species. Her relationship with Rosemary is particularly poignant.
Lowell Cooke
Rosemary’s father, a scientist involved in the experiment with Fern. His character embodies the conflicts between scientific curiosity and moral responsibility.
Fern
The family’s pet chimpanzee, raised as a human child, whose absence creates a lasting impact on the family and the narrative.
Other Family Members
- Rosemary’s mother, whose actions and secrets influence the family dynamics.
- Rosemary’s brother, Lowell, whose relationship with Rosemary is complex and layered with unspoken pain and understanding.
Themes Explored in the Novel
Family and Relationships
The novel examines the bonds that define a family, including the unbreakable connection between Rosemary and Fern, and the emotional fallout of secrets kept from loved ones.
Identity and Self-Discovery
Throughout the story, Rosemary struggles with her sense of self, shaped by her experiences with Fern and her family’s secrets. The novel questions what it means to be human and how identity is constructed.
Moral and Ethical Dilemmas
The experiment involving Fern raises questions about scientific ethics, animal rights, and the morality of raising a chimpanzee as a human.
Memory and Trauma
The narrative’s non-linear structure underscores how memories can be fragmented and how trauma influences personal history and perception.
Major Themes and Messages
- Ethics of Scientific Experimentation: The novel scrutinizes the moral implications of using animals in scientific research and the unforeseen consequences that can arise.
- Nature versus Nurture: The story explores how environment, upbringing, and biology shape identity, especially through Fern’s unique situation.
- Guilt and Loss: Rosemary’s feelings of guilt over Fern's removal and her subsequent loss are central to her emotional journey.
- Human-Animal Connection: The novel highlights the deep bonds that can form across species, challenging traditional notions of what constitutes family and kinship.
Conclusion: The Impact of the Novel
We Are All Completely Beside Ourselves is not just a story about a family and a chimpanzee; it is a meditation on the complexities of human relationships, ethical boundaries, and the quest for understanding oneself. Its innovative narrative structure invites readers to reflect on the ethical dilemmas faced by families involved in scientific experiments and the profound effects of secrets on personal identity. This novel’s blend of humor, tragedy, and insight makes it a compelling read that resonates long after the final page.
By understanding the story’s key elements—its plot, characters, themes, and messages—readers gain a deeper appreciation for Fowler’s masterful storytelling and the profound questions it raises about what it means to be truly human. Whether you are exploring the novel for academic purposes or personal reflection, the summary provided offers a comprehensive overview of this richly layered work.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the main theme of 'We Are All Completely Beside Ourselves'?
The novel explores themes of family, identity, memory, and the ethical dilemmas surrounding animal experimentation and human relationships.
Who is the narrator of 'We Are All Completely Beside Ourselves'?
The story is narrated by Rosemary Cooke, a college student reflecting on her childhood and the mysterious events involving her family.
What is the significance of the title 'We Are All Completely Beside Ourselves'?
The title reflects the novel's exploration of disorientation, the complexity of human emotions, and the idea that everyone experiences moments of being 'beside themselves' emotionally or psychologically.
How does the novel address the topic of animal experimentation?
The story reveals that Rosemary's family had a chimpanzee named Fern, who was raised as part of their family but later subjected to animal testing, raising ethical questions about scientific research and animal rights.
What is the role of Fern in the story?
Fern is a chimpanzee raised alongside Rosemary and her brother, serving as a catalyst for exploring themes of family, loyalty, and the moral complexities of animal experimentation.
How does the narrative structure of the novel affect its storytelling?
The novel employs a nonlinear, layered narrative with flashbacks and revelations, which gradually unveil the truth about Rosemary's childhood and the family secrets.
What is the significance of the novel's ending?
The ending offers a poignant reflection on memory, loss, and acceptance, as Rosemary comes to terms with her past and the truths she has uncovered about her family and herself.
How has 'We Are All Completely Beside Ourselves' been received by critics?
The novel received critical acclaim for its inventive storytelling, emotional depth, and thought-provoking themes, winning the 2014 PEN/Faulkner Award for Fiction.
What are some major literary devices used in the novel?
The author uses irony, foreshadowing, and layered narration to enhance the emotional impact and to gradually reveal key plot points.
Why is the novel considered a commentary on the boundaries between humans and animals?
It challenges readers to reconsider the ethical implications of animal testing and highlights the emotional connections that can exist between humans and animals, blurring traditional boundaries.
