La Ligne verte
by Stephen King, 金.史蒂芬
- First published 1996
- 506 pages
- French
- Classic
At Cold Mountain Penitentiary in 1932, the men on death row await their final walk down the stretch of linoleum floor known as the Green Mile. Paul Edgecombe is the block supervisor, a man who has seen his share of brutal criminals and has learned to carry out his duties with a sense of grim order. That order is shattered by the arrival of John Coffey, a physically imposing man convicted of a horrific crime, who seems to possess the gentle, frightened mind of a child. His presence on the Mile is an immediate contradiction, one that deeply unsettles the guards and fellow inmates.
As Edgecombe and his team get to know this enigmatic prisoner, they begin to witness events that defy all logical explanation. Coffey displays an extraordinary ability, one that challenges their fundamental beliefs about good and evil, justice, and the nature of miracles in a place defined by death. Paul is soon faced with a profound moral dilemma: how can a man capable of such impossible goodness be guilty of an unspeakable evil? This story explores the depths of human cruelty and compassion, forcing a re-examination of what it means to be condemned and what it means to be saved.
As Edgecombe and his team get to know this enigmatic prisoner, they begin to witness events that defy all logical explanation. Coffey displays an extraordinary ability, one that challenges their fundamental beliefs about good and evil, justice, and the nature of miracles in a place defined by death. Paul is soon faced with a profound moral dilemma: how can a man capable of such impossible goodness be guilty of an unspeakable evil? This story explores the depths of human cruelty and compassion, forcing a re-examination of what it means to be condemned and what it means to be saved.
- Genres
- Fiction › Speculative fiction › Horror & supernaturalFiction › Speculative fiction › FantasyFiction › Thriller & suspenseFiction › Speculative fiction › Science fictionFiction › Romance › Contemporary romance
- Themes
- AnimalsCrime & justice › MurderRace & ethnicity › Black experience Religion & faith Mythical & supernatural beings
- Where and when
- England United States Prison
What readers say
4.49
381K ratings across the web 9 in 10 readers loved it
Reviewers widely praise this book as one of Stephen King's finest works, often elevating it above his typical horror genre. Many consider it a masterpiece, noting its exceptional writing quality and masterful storytelling that deeply moves readers. The narrative is lauded for its rich character development, presenting vivid, human, and relatable individuals, even in minor roles. The unique serial publication structure is highlighted as effective, creating compelling cliffhangers and smooth transitions between its six parts. The book skillfully incorporates subtle supernatural elements without relying on overt horror or excessive gore, instead using them to deepen the emotional and thematic impact. Its immersive historical setting and atmosphere are also frequently commended, drawing readers into the world of a 1930s penitentiary.
Despite overwhelming positive reception, some readers found the beginning of the book to be slow or tedious, taking time to fully engage with the story. The intense emotional nature of the narrative, while often praised, can also be overwhelming, leaving some readers feeling profound sadness, anger, or even emotional numbness by the end. A few reviewers mentioned that the framing device, featuring the protagonist in old age, occasionally felt like a distraction, though others appreciated it. While the antagonist's depth is often noted, their despicable actions made for uncomfortably intense reading for some. A minor point raised by a few was a perceived lack of extensive backstory for a key character, though this was generally not seen as a major flaw.
Overall, the consensus is that this is an unforgettable and highly recommended book, frequently described as a deeply philosophical and moving experience that lingers with readers long after completion. It is celebrated for its powerful exploration of complex themes such as injustice, morality, human compassion, and the death penalty, prompting significant reflection. This book is particularly recommended for readers who appreciate character-driven stories and emotional narratives, as well as those interested in historical fiction with a touch of the supernatural. It is also an excellent entry point for newcomers to Stephen King who may be wary of his more traditional horror, showcasing his versatility as a writer capable of crafting profound and heartbreaking literary works. Readers should be prepared for a powerful emotional journey.
Despite overwhelming positive reception, some readers found the beginning of the book to be slow or tedious, taking time to fully engage with the story. The intense emotional nature of the narrative, while often praised, can also be overwhelming, leaving some readers feeling profound sadness, anger, or even emotional numbness by the end. A few reviewers mentioned that the framing device, featuring the protagonist in old age, occasionally felt like a distraction, though others appreciated it. While the antagonist's depth is often noted, their despicable actions made for uncomfortably intense reading for some. A minor point raised by a few was a perceived lack of extensive backstory for a key character, though this was generally not seen as a major flaw.
Overall, the consensus is that this is an unforgettable and highly recommended book, frequently described as a deeply philosophical and moving experience that lingers with readers long after completion. It is celebrated for its powerful exploration of complex themes such as injustice, morality, human compassion, and the death penalty, prompting significant reflection. This book is particularly recommended for readers who appreciate character-driven stories and emotional narratives, as well as those interested in historical fiction with a touch of the supernatural. It is also an excellent entry point for newcomers to Stephen King who may be wary of his more traditional horror, showcasing his versatility as a writer capable of crafting profound and heartbreaking literary works. Readers should be prepared for a powerful emotional journey.
Reviews
No reviews yet. Be the first.
Details & editions
- This edition
- Livre de Poche, 2008
- ISBN
- 9782253122920
- Language
- French
Original edition Il miglio verde, Volume 1 Originally published in 1996 · Italian · Sperling & Kupfer
