Pure Colour

Sheila Heti's 'Pure Colour' is an explosively bright, profoundly philosophical novel that reimagines the very fabric of existence. Set in the 'first draft of Creation,' a world poised for an artist's revision, the narrative follows Mira, a young woman who leaves home to study. Her path intersects with Annie, a figure whose immense power profoundly impacts Mira, opening her to unknown possibilities. The story takes an extraordinary turn when Mira's beloved father dies, and his spirit controversially merges with hers, transforming them into a single leaf on a tree. This unique state allows for profound contemplation, yet the existential boredom of photosynthesis and the inherent problems of being alive persist. Mira's journey becomes a poignant exploration of grief, the nature of consciousness, and the pull between an ethereal, non-human existence and the complexities of human connection, ultimately forcing her to choose whether to return to the world she left behind, including Annie.