My Year of Rest and Relaxation

about the project and casting

Summary:
“My Year of Rest and Relaxation” is a novel by American author Ottessa Moshfegh. The story is set in New York City in the year 2000 and follows an unnamed protagonist who is a young, beautiful, and wealthy Columbia University graduate. Despite her seemingly perfect life, she is deeply dissatisfied and decides to spend a year in a drug-induced sleep in an attempt to reset her life and escape her existential dread.

The protagonist, who is dealing with the recent deaths of her parents and a toxic relationship with her on-again, off-again boyfriend Trevor, consults a questionable psychiatrist named Dr. Tuttle. Dr. Tuttle prescribes a cocktail of medications to help the protagonist achieve her goal of sleeping away her pain. Throughout the novel, the protagonist’s interactions with her eccentric best friend, Reva, provide a stark contrast to her own apathy and nihilism.

As the protagonist descends deeper into her drug-induced slumber, the novel explores themes of grief, depression, and the search for meaning in a superficial and materialistic society. The story culminates in a transformative ending that ties back to the protagonist’s quest for rebirth and renewal.

Reception:
“My Year of Rest and Relaxation” received critical acclaim for its dark humor, sharp prose, and unflinching examination of modern malaise. Critics praised Moshfegh’s ability to create a deeply flawed yet compelling protagonist and her exploration of themes related to mental health and societal expectations. The novel was noted for its satirical take on the early 2000s culture and its poignant commentary on the human condition.

Author Background:
Ottessa Moshfegh is an American author known for her distinctive voice and unique storytelling. Born in 1981 in Boston, Massachusetts, Moshfegh has published several novels, short stories, and a novella. She is a graduate of Barnard College and the Brown University MFA program. Her debut novel, “Eileen,” was shortlisted for the Man Booker Prize in 2016 and won the Hemingway Foundation/PEN Award. Moshfegh is known for her darkly comedic and often unsettling narratives that delve into the complexities of human nature.

Adaptations:
As of the latest update, there have been discussions about adapting “My Year of Rest and Relaxation” into a film, but no official announcements have been made regarding its production or release.

Significance:
The novel has become a touchstone in contemporary literature, resonating with readers for its exploration of themes like mental health, consumer culture, and the desire for escapism. It has been celebrated for its bold approach to storytelling and its unflinching portrayal of a protagonist in search of meaning amidst personal and societal chaos.