A novel split in two parts. The first is an exploration of the concept of father/father figure, which is an important figure in many countries, especially in today's more fascistic political climate. This is obviously tied to contemporary social and political issues in Turkey, as well as a certain social analysis.
The second part of the book brings in many issues current is Turkey, especially Istanbul. The main character becomes a property developer, and many of the shady, insider "trading" elements of behind the scenes Istanbul politics appear in the novel. Pamuk also continues to chronicle the destruction of beautiful Istanbul - the same property development, the choking traffic. There is also an exploration of loss of values - egocentrism, luxury consumerism, money obsession, an obsession with the West (or some idealized vision thereof). He also continues his blending of West and East culturally, with specific artwork from both traditions playing a role in the book.
Interesting and complex. Worth the read. Unfortunately, the first half seemed a better read to me than the second half - the second half tends to be a bit too didactic at times, a bit too artificially a novel of ideas.
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