The Complex Bonds of Female Ambition: A Review of Ella Berman’s “L.A. Women”
Ella Berman’s third novel, “L.A. Women,” dives deep into the tangled relationships between two writers navigating the glittering, frequently enough treacherous landscape of Los Angeles. It’s a story about ambition, envy, and the challenging work of genuine connection – a compelling read that resonates long after you turn the final page.
(Image of Ella Berman by Phoebe Lettice thompson – as provided in the original text)
A Disappearance and a Reckoning
The narrative kicks off with the mysterious disappearance of Gala, a celebrated novelist and longtime friend of Lane, the book’s protagonist. This event isn’t just a plot device; it’s a catalyst for Lane to confront her own feelings about Gala,and to question the narratives we construct about the women around us. Is Gala a cautionary tale of a starlet undone, or a woman actively forging a new path?
Berman skillfully explores this ambiguity, recognizing that the truth is rarely simple. She presents two stark possibilities: “violet and vomit-streaked in a stranger’s bed at the Chateau, or maybe she would buy a baby grand piano and move to the coast…” The search for Gala becomes a search for understanding.
Los Angeles as character
berman paints a vivid portrait of Los Angeles, utilizing iconic landmarks like the Magic castle, Musso & Frank’s, and the Chateau Marmont. You’ll even spot a cameo from artist Ed Ruscha cruising down Wilshire Boulevard. While these settings add a layer of recognizable glamour, the novel’s true power lies in its exploration of the emotional terrain.The city itself becomes a character, influencing the dynamics between Lane and Gala. It’s a place where image is paramount, and where women are often pitted against each other.
The Weight of Expectations
“L.A. Women” doesn’t shy away from examining the societal pressures that contribute to female rivalry. Berman argues that the culture itself often creates adversaries, notably through the lens of male expectations.
Consider this: ”Isn’t that what most men wanted – to flatten women not into individuals with needs and wants and requirements, but into a vague, out-of-focus mass?” This observation cuts to the heart of the novel’s themes.
The book also touches on the consequences of societal judgment for those who don’t conform. Charlie, a powerful music industry figure, faces repercussions when his homosexuality becomes public knowledge, highlighting the precariousness of authenticity in a culture obsessed with image.
Beyond the Breeze: A Novel with Substance
Despite its often breezy tone, “L.A. Women” tackles weighty themes. It’s a story about the obstacles to honesty – how media culture, the legacy of Laurel Canyon, and ingrained gender dynamics can prevent us from truly seeing and being seen.
Here’s what makes this novel stand out:
Raw Emotional Honesty: Berman excels at revealing the subtle ways attachment morphs into envy, and how we rationalize those feelings.
Complex Characters: Lane and Gala are flawed, relatable women grappling with their own insecurities and ambitions.
Sharp Social Commentary: The novel offers a nuanced critique of the pressures faced by women in the entertainment industry and beyond.
Exploration of Need: The story highlights the difficulty of admitting vulnerability and the importance of genuine connection.
The Price of Storytelling
Berman subtly reminds us of the ethical dilemmas inherent in writing. As journalist Janet Malcolm famously wrote, “Writers are always selling someone out.” This isn’t necessarily malicious; it’s often a consequence of the pursuit of a good story,attention,or status.
“L.A. Women” suggests that the core challenge is more fundamental: learning to treat those closest to us as human beings, not commodities. Gala’s own assertion – ”It was infinitely more satisfying to be somebody rather than somebody’s plus-one” – encapsulates this desire for self-definition.
Ultimately, “L.A. Women” is a thought-provoking and beautifully written novel that will stay with you long after you finish reading. It’s a testament to Ella Berman’s talent and a powerful exploration of the complexities of female friendship and ambition.
**_Athitakis is a writer in Phoenix and author of “