News
November 19, 2025
In ‘Queen Esther,’ John Irving travels back to ‘The Cider House Rules’
Novelist John Irving says he knew he was on track when he figured out how “Queen Esther” would end. Now he faced a new challenge: How the story began. “Like all my novels, that’s the thing I see most clearly...
**John Irving Revisits Familiar Territory in New Novel, ‘Queen Esther’**
Acclaimed novelist John Irving, known for his poignant and often quirky stories, has revealed insights into his creative process while working on his latest book, "Queen Esther." The author, celebrated for works like "The World According to Garp" and "The Cider House Rules," hinted that his new novel shares thematic and perhaps even stylistic similarities with the latter.
Irving confessed that the key to unlocking "Queen Esther" lay in determining its conclusion. He explained that understanding the ending provided a crucial framework for the entire narrative. However, once the final destination was clear, he faced the common writer's hurdle: crafting the beginning.
“Like all my novels, that’s the thing I see most clearly…” Irving stated, implying that visualizing the ending is a defining characteristic of his writing approach. This method suggests a meticulous and deliberate construction of his narratives, where every element contributes to a pre-determined and meaningful resolution.
The connection to "The Cider House Rules" is particularly intriguing for Irving's fans. That novel, set in rural Maine, tackled complex issues of abortion, adoption, and the meaning of family with Irving's signature blend of humor and heartbreak. Could "Queen Esther" be exploring similar themes, or perhaps returning to a similar setting or type of character?
While specific plot details remain under wraps, Irving's comments suggest that "Queen Esther" will likely feature the same intricate plotting, memorable characters, and exploration of social issues that have defined his career. Readers can anticipate a story that is both deeply personal and broadly relevant, continuing Irving's tradition of using fiction to examine the human condition. The process of finding the beginning, now underway, is sure to be a fascinating journey for both the author and, eventually, his eager readership. The release date for "Queen Esther" has not yet been announced, but anticipation is already building within the literary community.
Acclaimed novelist John Irving, known for his poignant and often quirky stories, has revealed insights into his creative process while working on his latest book, "Queen Esther." The author, celebrated for works like "The World According to Garp" and "The Cider House Rules," hinted that his new novel shares thematic and perhaps even stylistic similarities with the latter.
Irving confessed that the key to unlocking "Queen Esther" lay in determining its conclusion. He explained that understanding the ending provided a crucial framework for the entire narrative. However, once the final destination was clear, he faced the common writer's hurdle: crafting the beginning.
“Like all my novels, that’s the thing I see most clearly…” Irving stated, implying that visualizing the ending is a defining characteristic of his writing approach. This method suggests a meticulous and deliberate construction of his narratives, where every element contributes to a pre-determined and meaningful resolution.
The connection to "The Cider House Rules" is particularly intriguing for Irving's fans. That novel, set in rural Maine, tackled complex issues of abortion, adoption, and the meaning of family with Irving's signature blend of humor and heartbreak. Could "Queen Esther" be exploring similar themes, or perhaps returning to a similar setting or type of character?
While specific plot details remain under wraps, Irving's comments suggest that "Queen Esther" will likely feature the same intricate plotting, memorable characters, and exploration of social issues that have defined his career. Readers can anticipate a story that is both deeply personal and broadly relevant, continuing Irving's tradition of using fiction to examine the human condition. The process of finding the beginning, now underway, is sure to be a fascinating journey for both the author and, eventually, his eager readership. The release date for "Queen Esther" has not yet been announced, but anticipation is already building within the literary community.
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