Image for Perec's "A Void"

Perec's "A Void"

Perec's "A Void" is a novel crafted entirely without the letter "e," a constraint known as a lipogram. This stylistic choice challenges language and storytelling, as the author must find innovative ways to convey plot, character, and emotion without using common words containing that letter. The novel explores themes of loss and disappearance, notably focusing on the absence of a character’s lover, which is reflected in its form. Ultimately, "A Void" exemplifies how strict limitations can inspire creative storytelling and highlight the fluidity and adaptability of language.