Savannah, the historic city situated on the coast of Georgia, has long been a source of inspiration for writers and storytellers. It’s charming architecture, lush greenery, and rich history have captivated the minds of many and served as a backdrop for numerous literary works. One of the most notable portrayals of this city in literature is in John Berendt’s 1994 bestseller, ‘Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil’. However, as the years have passed, the depiction of Savannah in literature has evolved, reflecting the changes and advancements in the city. Let us take a closer look at how the literary portrayal of Savannah has changed over the years.
In ‘Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil’, Berendt presents Savannah as a charming, yet mysterious city with a dark underbelly. The protagonist, John Kelso, is drawn to the eccentric characters and the vibrant social scene of the city. He becomes entangled in the web of secrets and scandals that make Savannah alluring and at the same time, dangerous. The novel also sheds light on the stark inequalities and racism prevalent in the city, which adds another layer to its complex portrayal. Berendt’s writing brilliantly captures the essence of Savannah, making it almost like a character in its own right.
One of the reasons why ‘Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil’ resonated with readers is its realistic depiction of the city. Berendt spent several years living in Savannah and took the time to understand the nuances of its culture and people. He weaves together real-life events and characters with his storytelling, creating a vivid portrait of the city. The unpredictable and enigmatic nature of Savannah is what makes it such a popular setting for fiction. However, over the years, writers have moved away from just using the city as a backdrop and have delved deeper into its essence.
In modern literature, we see a more nuanced and diverse portrayal of Savannah. Writers like Karen White, Mary Alice Monroe, and Ann Hite have incorporated elements of Southern fiction, romance, and the supernatural in their stories set in Savannah. These works depict the city as a charming and dreamy destination, with a strong sense of community and tradition. White’s ‘The Sound of Glass’ and Monroe’s ‘Beach House for Rent’ highlight the close-knit family ties and the importance of preserving traditions that are characteristic of the city. On the other hand, Hite’s ‘Sleeping Above Chaos’ and ‘Ghost on Black Mountain’ explore the supernatural and mystical side of Savannah, adding an intriguing element to the city’s portrayal in fiction.
Apart from these works of fiction, there has also been a rise in non-fiction books that offer a more in-depth and critical analysis of Savannah. ‘Savannah: Immortal City’ by Barry Sheehy, ‘Hidden History of Savannah’ by Amy Paige Condon, and ‘Savannah: A History of Her People Since 1733’ by Preston Russell are just a few examples of the many books that delve into the city’s rich history and culture. These literary works provide a more comprehensive understanding of Savannah, showcasing its evolution over the centuries.
Furthermore, the changing landscape of Savannah has also influenced its depiction in literature. The city has experienced significant growth and development in recent years, with an increasing number of tourists and a thriving arts and culinary scene. This has been reflected in works such as ‘The Last Book Party’ by Karen Dukess and ‘The Ghosts of Eden Park’ by Karen Abbott. These novels highlight the modernization and transformation of Savannah while still paying homage to its rich past.
In conclusion, the portrayal of Savannah in literature has evolved from an enigmatic and mysterious city to a multidimensional and dynamic one. From ‘Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil’ to the present day, writers have captured the essence of this city in various ways, showcasing its charm, diversity, and complexity. Savannah continues to inspire writers and readers alike, and its evolving depiction in literature only adds to its allure.