French Exit by Patrick DeWitt is a darkly comedic tale of a wealthy widow and her son fleeing scandal in New York for Paris. Critics praise DeWitt's sharp wit, distinctive characters, and eccentric storyline. Some, however, find the plot meandering and the humor uneven. Overall, it is lauded for its unique narrative voice and memorable prose.

Readers who enjoy dark comedies, satirical tones, and flawed, eccentric characters will be captivated by Patrick DeWitt's French Exit. Fans of the social critique in The Bonfire of the Vanities by Tom Wolfe or the absurdist humor in A Confederacy of Dunces by John Kennedy Toole will appreciate this novel.

French Exit, by Patrick Dewitt, follows the story of Frances Price, a wealthy Manhattan widow, and her adult son, Malcolm, who face financial ruin and decide to move to Paris. As they navigate their new lives, the two encounter quirky characters, such as a clairvoyant, and confront their past, including secrets about Frances's deceased husband, leading to profound personal transformations. This book includes themes of death by suicide.

Dark / Humorous / Mysterious / Melancholic / Bittersweet

Patrick Dewitt

Adult

Novel

Fiction

Guide

Study Guide

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Overview

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French Exit Summary and Study Guide

Background

French Exit Background

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Chapter Summaries & Analyses

Part 1: “New York”

Part 1 French Exit Part 1 Summary & Analysis

Part 2: “Paris”

Part 2, Chapters 14-29

French Exit Part 2, Chapters 14-29 Summary & Analysis

Part 2, Chapter 30-Coda

French Exit Part 2, Chapter 30-Coda Summary & Analysis

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Character Analysis

French Exit Character Analysis

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Themes

French Exit Themes

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French Exit Symbols & Motifs

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Important Quotes

French Exit Important Quotes

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Essay Topics

French Exit Essay Topics

French Exit

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