In "My Name Is Red" by Orhan Pamuk, the story is set in the Ottoman Empire and revolves around a group of miniaturists who are tasked with creating art that blends both Islamic and Western influences. The narrative explores themes of love, art, and the tension between tradition and change. As characters entwine in their personal and professional lives, they confront profound questions about identity and the nature of art itself.
One particular quote raises the question of whether something beautiful can also be frightening, suggesting a deeper complexity in our perceptions. The phrase, "Are you an angel that approaching you should be so terrifying?" encapsulates the juxtaposition of beauty and fear, inviting readers to reflect on the paradoxes within art and relationships. The novel delves into these intricate emotions, illustrating how admiration and dread can coexist.