Windows to the World

Style and Technique

Frédéric Beigbeder's novel «Windows to the World» is distinguished by its unique style and structure, which emphasize the emotional depth and tragedy of the events of September 11, 2001. The book's structure alternates between two narrative lines: one tells the story of a fictional family caught in the Windows on the World restaurant atop the World Trade Center during the attack, while the other consists of the author's reflections from Paris. Beigbeder uses metafiction techniques, incorporating his personal comments and experiences into the text, creating a dialogue effect with the reader. The language of the book is rich with emotional descriptions that convey the horror and hopelessness of the situation, as well as philosophical reflections on life and death. The author skillfully combines realism with elements of fiction, creating a powerful emotional impact. Beigbeder's style is characterized by irony and sarcasm, allowing him to discuss heavy themes with a certain lightness and humanity. An important feature is also the use of short, concise chapters that underscore the dynamism and tension of the events.