This book, perhaps fittingly, had lurked around my life for a while before I finally had the drive to read it. I'd come across an essay about it, and been intrigued even though I had lacked understanding of the references. A colleague referenced another Shirley Jackson work ("The Lottery" - perhaps her most famous). Finally, for some strange reason, my wife picked up the book and read the whole thing in one night and spent the next month telling me I should read it. I second her recommendation.
Jackson weaves together a beautiful, but dark and complex story, focusing mainly on the disintegrating Blackwood family. At first, we find that the locals in their small town have ostracized the family after an unnamed event. As the story unfolds, the truth becomes more murky and muddled until the arrival of a long-lost cousin catalyzes a major change and, finally, the truth is revealed.
What's amazing is how well-crafted this book is. (And I know that's cliche, but I can't think of a better way of saying it.) Upon reflection, most of the plot is both crucial and negligible. What is most memorable, though, is the cast of characters. Mary Katherine Blackwood is completely unforgettable (and to say much more would rob you of the joy of meeting her yourself). Her sister Constance should rank in the pantheon of American mythology (with the Jay Gatsby and Quentin Compson types). And, when all is revealed, the tragedy of Uncle Julian's madness is made complete.
The word "gothic" is thrown around a lot to describe books which don't fit into the polite category of fiction, but this is not the case with "We Have Always Lived in the Castle." Jackson's novel should be hailed as the archetype of gothic American writing. But, beyond that, it should be honored as an American classic.
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