A Talent for Murder

Content Warning: This section discusses murder.

The dichotomy between reality and appearance emerges as a central theme in A Talent for Murder, permeating the narrative structure, character development, and plot progression. The novel explores how outward appearances can be deceptive and how the truth often lies hidden beneath carefully constructed facades.

From the outset, the novel establishes this theme through the character of Alan. Martha’s initial perception of Alan as a “nice man” with shared interests is quickly juxtaposed with glimpses of a darker side, exemplified by the “expression of malevolence” that she observes when he thinks he’s alone. This dichotomy sets the stage for the central conflict of the novel and drives Martha’s investigation to uncover her husband’s true nature. Swanson positions Alan’s character as a template for how to approach each of the major characters of the novel, including Lily, Henry, Martha, and Ethan, all of whom hold various secrets of their own or use alternate identities to achieve their goals.

Swanson develops the theme through the novel’s structure, which alternates between different characters’ perspectives and narrative points of view. This technique allows the reader to see how characters present themselves to others compared to their true thoughts and motivations. For instance, Ethan’s public persona as a respectable art dealer named Robert Charnock stands in stark contrast to his true identity as a serial killer. In the same vein, Lily’s persona as a devoted daughter to her aging parents is nuanced by her true identity as a person capable of violence in support of justice.

The recurring motif of professional conferences serves as a microcosm for this theme. These events become spaces where normal identities can be suspended and where the lines between appearance and reality blur. Alan’s booth at the conferences, where he sells innocuous merchandise, becomes a front for his alleged criminal activities and, later on, a front for his pursuit of extramarital affairs. Similarly, Lily’s adoption of false identities at these conferences underscores how easily appearances can be manipulated.

The dichotomy of appearance versus reality extends to the broader concept of truth and lies within the characters’ relationships. The polyamorous arrangement between Josie and Travis challenges conventional perceptions of fidelity and trust. Meanwhile, Martha’s growing suspicions about Alan highlight how even intimate relationships can be built on false pretenses. Swanson holds back from making any direct assertions in the narrative as to which type of relationship is most desirable. Instead, he places the narrative emphasis on the amount of respect and communication within those relationships, regardless of their agreed-upon dynamics and parameters.

The line between appearance and reality becomes increasingly blurred as the characters adopt multiple identities, engage in deception, and uncover hidden truths. The revelation of Ethan, not Alan, as the serial killer serves as the ultimate manifestation of this theme, subverting both the characters’ and readers’ expectations. However, the final twist in the novel’s Epilogue—that Alan murdered Josie—brings the narrative full circle, validating Martha’s initial instincts, ensuring justice for each of the novel’s murder victims, and reinforcing the idea that each of Swanson’s characters carries their own secrets and practices deception in their own ways.

The dichotomy of appearance versus reality serves as more than just a plot device in Swanson’s novel; it becomes a lens through which the author explores deeper questions about identity, truth, and the nature of human relationships. By consistently challenging the characters’ and readers’ perceptions, Swanson creates a narrative that emphasizes the complexity of truth and the ease with which appearances can deceive.