东欧“赘婿”文学，得了2025年布克奖？

Core Viewpoint - The novel "Flesh" by David Szalay presents the life of István, a character who experiences a series of bizarre and transformative events, contrasting with typical "dragon-slaying" narratives where protagonists triumphantly overcome adversity. Instead, István remains largely silent and passive, embodying a sense of emotional numbness and acceptance of his role as a "tool" in life [5][6][9]. Summary by Sections Character Development - István's journey begins in a Hungarian apartment with his mother, leading to a tragic incident that lands him in a juvenile detention center. After his release, he engages in various low-level jobs and eventually becomes a private driver for a wealthy family in London, marking a significant turn in his fortune [5][6]. - Despite achieving wealth and status, István's character is marked by silence and emotional detachment, often responding with "OK," which symbolizes his acceptance of life's changes and his numbness to his circumstances [6][9]. Themes of Desire and Identity - The novel explores the themes of desire and identity, illustrating how István's life is shaped by his physical experiences and societal expectations. His actions are often driven by instinct rather than conscious choice, leading to a disconnect between his emotional state and his actions [10][11]. - Szalay critiques the notion of male heroism in literature, presenting István as a character who does not fight against fate but rather reacts to it, highlighting the limitations of personal agency in the face of larger societal forces [10][12]. Societal Commentary - "Flesh" serves as a reflection on the impact of societal structures, such as war and economic disparity, on individual lives. Szalay suggests that István's fate is influenced by external events beyond his control, including the Iraq War and the financial crises of the early 21st century [15][16]. - The narrative emphasizes the isolation and loneliness experienced by individuals as they navigate their desires within the constraints of societal expectations, portraying a stark contrast to the more triumphant narratives prevalent in contemporary literature [17][18].