This paper is set to highlight the comparisons in novel and the movie versions of ‘The Notebook’. In this regard, the study will discuss the similarities and differences that exist in the aforementioned versions. In order to effectively bring out the pertinent issues, the discussion revolves around the salient features of a work of art. These features include setting, plot, characterization, thematic concerns, and style.

Differences

The setting in the versions presents a certain extent of contrast. Most significantly, the distinguishing feature of setting in this case revolves around the temporal dimension. This has to do with time in which the story is set. In the novel, the story is set in the 1930s. In fact, it is reported that Noah and Allie meet in 1932. On the other hand, the movie is based on the 1940s; it states that that Noah and Allie met in 1940.

Distinctions are also evident in the characterization in the two versions. The book and the movie present varied attributes of both Noah and Allie. Allie is portrayed as an individual with a laid back personality in the book. She is kind, compassionate, caring, and highly complicated. This shows in the diplomatic approach she and Noah adopt when parting ways. They do it peacefully (Sparks, 1996). On the contrary, the movie presents Allie as being headstrong or rather hard-headed. She is more stubborn, fights Noah and eventually makes up her mind to part ways with him. As if not enough, she is portrayed as a self-opinionated person. Like Allie, the movie displays Noah as louder and opinionated. This is sharp contrast to the quiet, gentle, shy, and sober Noah in the novel (Chen & Hong Kong Polytechnic University, 2014).

Another distinguishing feature between the two versions is based on style. The elements of style used in the versions determine their lengths. On the one hand, the novel adopts flashback as its main aspect. This makes it brief and short. On the other hand, the movie mainly adopts vivid description as the central style. Through this, the movie attempts at giving all the possible dynamic details of the story. This makes the latter version longer.

Similarities

The most apparent similarities in the two versions are highlighted by the thematic concerns covered. The dominant theme in both entails the power of love. The two central characters in the story (Noah and Allie) are deeply in love with each from the beginning till the end. The love shared between them is timeless. Having parted ways earlier due to socio- economic differences, it is clear that they did not stop loving each other. Upon Noah’s return, Allie visits him after seeing his picture in the newspaper. During their reunion, the fondly relive their pleasant experiences.

Another theme that is similar in both versions is betrayal. This is brought forth by the relationship among Allie, Noah and Lon. In the versions, Lon becomes Allie’s boyfriend after she breaks up with Noah. At a time when Allie and Lon are about to tie knots, Noah reappears. This complicates the nexus between Lon and Allie. This is because Allie is still deeply in love with Noah. This is exhibited by their reunion in Noah’s refurbished farmhouse, where they had made love for the first time after their meeting. In the end, Allie is unable to make an appropriate decision. She loves Noah whilst afraid of hurting Lon (Sparks, Baker & Taylor Axis 360, 2014).

In conclusion, the study has successfully highlighted the comparisons in the novel and movie versions of ‘The Notebook’. It is of concern for one to note that the aforementioned versions complement one another. In a bid to understand the story, it is advisable to look at the both versions.

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