Plot Overview: The novel follows Cem, a young man apprenticed to a well-digger, Master Mahmut, who becomes fascinated with a red-haired woman he encounters at a theater. This fascination leads Cem to a series of life-altering events and a mysterious disappearance.
Themes: Fate and free will, the impact of storytelling and mythology, the Oedipus complex, and the father-son relationship are central themes explored in "The Red-Haired Woman."
Character Development: Orhan Pamuk intricately develops the characters of Cem and Master Mahmut, delving into their inner conflicts and the cultural backdrop of modern Turkey.
Narrative Style: Pamuk's lyrical prose and philosophical reflections create a haunting atmosphere, blending realism with myth and legend.
Critical Reception: Praised for its depth and poetic narrative style, "The Red-Haired Woman" has been noted for its exploration of Turkish identity and its philosophical undertones.