Gina Butson’s Debut Novel Explores Guilt and Connection on Ruapehu

Gina Butson’s debut novel, A Million Glittering Worlds, takes readers on a journey from the peaks of Ruapehu to the shores of Lake Atitlán. Released in March 2023, the book intricately weaves themes of mystery, romance, and personal guilt into a narrative that spans diverse landscapes and emotional terrains.

The story opens in 2006, with the enigmatic character Thea leaving her work clothes neatly folded on her car seat as she heads up to an alpine hut. This setting serves as a backdrop for her upcoming climbing expedition. Describing the mountain, Butson writes, “As the sky lightens, the broad top of Ruapehu cuts a dark seismic line between earth and sky.” This metaphor not only situates readers in the breathtaking natural environment but also symbolizes the tension between past and present that pervades the novel.

As the plot unfolds, Thea’s journey brings her to San Pedro La Laguna in Guatemala, where she meets Sarah and Chris, fellow travelers who become central to her story. The dynamics among the trio reflect the complexities of friendship and desire, with Thea caught in a triangle of unspoken feelings. Butson skillfully portrays their relationships, emphasizing how guilt and unexamined memories shape their lives.

The narrative is rich in character development, particularly through Thea’s interactions with Sarah, who encourages her to confront her fears. As Thea ascends Tajumulco, she reflects on her friendship with Sarah, wishing she could share the moment with her. This longing underscores the emotional stakes of the story, drawing readers deeper into Thea’s psyche.

Butson’s exploration of guilt is poignant and multifaceted. Thea grapples with memories she has deliberately suppressed, and the author captures this struggle with vivid imagery. “There are memories that Thea’s kept unexamined for months, pushing them down deep underwater until she’s strong enough,” Butson writes. This reflection resonates with the psychological principle that acknowledging guilt can lead to personal growth, echoing the sentiments of psychologist Carl Jung.

While the character Chris serves largely as a foil, he is also portrayed with a physical allure that complicates Thea’s emotional landscape. His presence adds tension to the narrative, emphasizing the contrasts in Thea’s relationships. Although some readers may find the intimacy of their encounters limited, Butson hints at deeper connections through Thea’s profession as a physiotherapist, illustrating her intricate understanding of the human body.

The novel’s climactic climbing expedition on Ruapehu is exhilarating and vividly described. Readers can almost feel the chill of the mountains and the thrill of adventure as they journey alongside the characters. “Snow-streaked bluffs stand watch as the four move out of the broad white basin onto the steepening slope,” Butson writes, evoking a sense of urgency and danger that heightens the story’s tension.

Butson’s ability to evoke place is remarkable, using metaphors drawn from nature to enrich the narrative. Ruapehu, Muriwai, and Wellington Harbour are not just settings; they are integral to the characters’ experiences and emotions. The mountain itself serves as a powerful symbol of heritage and connection, particularly for the Ngāti Tūwharetoa iwi, who view it as an ancestor.

This cultural context is important, as Butson acknowledges the historical significance of Ruapehu to its indigenous people. The novel subtly intertwines themes of reconciliation and the weight of history, prompting reflections on how personal and collective histories influence identity. Butson’s work is informed by the guidance of Tina Makereti, a respected voice in the representation of Māori narratives.

In a broader sense, A Million Glittering Worlds can be interpreted as a parable of integrating settler guilt and understanding one’s relationship with the land. Thea’s journey of self-discovery parallels the historical complexities surrounding Ruapehu and its significance to the Māori people. The narrative suggests that turning away from one’s history can lead to personal and communal disconnection.

As readers navigate the emotional and geographical landscapes of Butson’s novel, they are invited to reflect on their connections to place and the impact of memory. The book reminds us that, much like the mountain at its center, our histories remain ever-present, shaping our identities and relationships.

A Million Glittering Worlds by Gina Butson is published by Allen & Unwin and retails for $37.99. It is available in bookstores nationwide, offering readers a chance to explore the intricate interplay of guilt, friendship, and the places that shape us.