“Flowers for Algernon" by Daniel Keyes is a fantastic piece of literature, featuring a brilliant character study as well as a thought-provoking exploration of intelligence and identity. The story centers around Charlie Gordon, a mentally handicapped man who is chosen to participate in an experimental surgery intended to boost his intelligence.
The book follows Charlie’s journey of self-discovery both in the present and through flashbacks. At the beginning of the novel, readers learn that Charlie works as a janitor for Donner’s Bakery, and is considered to be mentally disabled. Despite being teased, laughed at, and generally treated poorly by other characters, Charlie always pushed on and was determined to improve his intelligence and be seen as more than just “retarded”. Having been chosen to undergo a new procedure for boosting intelligence, Charlie is ecstatic about the chance to prove his worth, and the book follows the highs and lows of his journey.
The main theme of the novel is identity. As we read, Charlie is constantly searching for an identity that he can be proud of, and dispels any notions of himself as “retarded”. As his IQ increases due to the experimental surgery, so does his understanding of his own place in the world. In his newfound intelligence, Charlie gains insight into the past and present. He learns to analyze and consider things critically, and makes invaluable connections between concepts that have previously eluded him. He also begins to see the flaws in his own actions, including those he committed while under the influence of the treatment.
Throughout the novel, Keyes introduces several key themes, notably the importance of emotional connections, the complexity of relationships, and the consequences of decisions made while under the influence of heightened intelligence. Charlie becomes increasingly disillusioned with the world around him as he begins to understand just how manipulative and cruel people can be. He is rejected by his own family for not being “normal” and struggles to find meaningful relationships. Until he meets Alice. Together, they form an unbreakable bond, one that Charlie learns is far more important than anything else he has achieved during his transformation.
Keyes’ message of hope and understanding is further explored with the introduction of the main antagonist. After his own surgeries, Dr. Nemur, Charlie’s supervisor, has become arrogant and cruel; he loses sight of the importance of emotional connections and seems to be more musk-oriented in his pursuit of success. His story serves as an example of the dangers of putting personal ambition ahead of empathy and connection.
Ultimately, “Flowers for Algernon” is a beautiful story of self-discovery, emotional connection, and the consequences of our actions. Throughout the novel, we watch Charlie struggle with his newfound intelligence and learning to accept himself despite the opinions of those around him. His story is one of tenacity and resilience, and through it, Keyes has expertly crafted an inspiring message of hope and understanding.
