Big Little Lies by Liane Moriarty: Study Guide & Literary Analysis

Introduction

Welcome to the captivating world of “Big Little Lies” 📚✨, a novel that takes you on a roller coaster of emotions, mystery, and the complexities of seemingly ordinary lives. Written by the talented Liane Moriarty, an Australian author renowned for her engaging narratives and intricate character development, this book stands out as a gem in contemporary fiction.

Contents

“Big Little Lies” was first published in 2014 and quickly found its place on bestseller lists around the globe. The novel is set in the beautiful, coastal town of Pirriwee, Australia, and centers around the lives of three women, each at a crossroads in their personal journeys. The genre blends elements of mystery, drama, and comedy, creating a rich tapestry that explores themes of family, friendship, secrets, and the lies we tell ourselves and others.

Liane Moriarty’s knack for creating relatable, complex characters, and her ability to weave suspenseful narratives has not only earned her critical acclaim but also led to “Big Little Lies” being adapted into an award-winning HBO series. This adaptation has helped bring Moriarty’s work to an even wider audience, solidifying her status as a key figure in modern literature.

Whether you’re a long-time fan or new to Moriarty’s work, “Big Little Lies” offers a compelling story that keeps you guessing until the very end. So, let’s dive into the intricate world that Liane Moriarty has crafted, exploring the secrets that lie beneath the surface of the perfect facade. 🌊🔍

Plot Summary

“Big Little Lies” intricately weaves the lives of three women, each battling her demons, in the scenic, seemingly tranquil town of Pirriwee. At the heart of the narrative is a suspicious death during a school trivia night, but the story unfolds through flashbacks leading up to this pivotal event, revealing the complex web of relationships and secrets among the characters.

Exposition — The story introduces Madeline, Celeste, and Jane, three women at different stages of life, each facing her unique challenges. Madeline grapples with her ex-husband and his new wife moving into her territory, Celeste harbors a dark secret about her seemingly perfect marriage, and Jane, the newcomer, hides a past that haunts her. Their lives intersect through their children at Pirriwee Public School.

Rising Action — As the school year progresses, tensions rise. Madeline’s battle with her ex-husband intensifies, Celeste’s marriage becomes more volatile, and Jane’s past starts catching up with her. The trio forms a strong bond, supporting each other through their struggles. The community is rife with rumors and secrets, with the school’s trivia night approaching, tensions reach a boiling point.

Climax — The climax unfolds at the school’s trivia night, where all the underlying tensions erupt. It’s revealed that Celeste’s husband, Perry, is both the abuser and the father of Jane’s child, the product of a traumatic encounter years ago. In a moment of chaos, Perry is pushed down the stairs, leading to his death.

Falling Action — The immediate aftermath of Perry’s death brings the community together, with people speculating about what happened. The women unite, bound by their shared secret of what transpired that night.

Resolution — The story concludes with the women overcoming their individual troubles, supported by their friendship. The truth about Perry’s death is tacitly acknowledged among them, but they choose to protect one another, keeping the exact details of his death a secret from the wider community. The novel ends on a note of empowerment and solidarity, with the women looking forward to a future where they can heal and move forward from their past traumas.

“Big Little Lies” masterfully blends suspense, humor, and emotional depth, offering a vivid exploration of the complexities of female friendship, motherhood, and the facades people maintain. Through its captivating plot, Moriarty invites readers to reflect on the unseen battles individuals face and the power of truth and solidarity.

Character Analysis

In “Big Little Lies,” Liane Moriarty presents a cast of characters that are as complex as they are relatable, offering a deep dive into their personalities, motivations, and evolution throughout the story.

Madeline Martha Mackenzie — Madeline is vibrant, outspoken, and fiercely loyal. She struggles with the complexities of blended family dynamics and her feelings of being undervalued. Throughout the novel, Madeline’s character demonstrates growth in understanding and accepting the complexities of life and relationships, showcasing her depth beyond the initial facade of perfection.

Celeste Wright — Celeste embodies the outward appearance of a perfect life: beautiful, wealthy, and married to a successful husband. However, she harbors a dark secret of domestic abuse. Celeste’s journey is one of self-discovery and empowerment, as she confronts her fears and takes steps to escape her abusive relationship, reflecting profound character development.

Jane Chapman — Jane is a young, single mother, new to Pirriwee, with a mysterious past. She is quiet and introspective, with deep-seated traumas stemming from a sexual assault that resulted in the birth of her son, Ziggy. Jane’s character arc involves confronting her past, seeking justice, and ultimately finding a sense of belonging and support within her new friendship circle.

Perry Wright — Perry is Celeste’s husband, charismatic and successful on the surface but harboring a violent temper that he unleashes on Celeste. His character serves as a critical exploration of the duality of human nature and the impact of domestic violence. Perry’s death is pivotal, serving as both a climax for the plot and a catalyst for the characters’ development and resolution.

Renata Klein — Renata is a powerful career woman, mother to Amabella, and initially appears as Madeline’s rival. Her character represents the challenges of work-life balance and the societal pressures on women. Renata’s development throughout the novel highlights themes of empathy and solidarity among women, as she moves from adversary to ally.

Character Analysis Summary

Character	Personality	Motivation	Development
Madeline Martha Mackenzie	Vibrant, outspoken, fiercely loyal	To protect her family and find value in her life	Grows to accept life’s complexities and embraces empathy
Celeste Wright	Beautiful, seemingly perfect, hiding abuse	To escape her abusive relationship and protect her children	Empowers herself to confront and leave her abuser
Jane Chapman	Quiet, introspective, trauma-affected	To confront her past and protect her son	Finds justice and a sense of community
Perry Wright	Charismatic with a violent temper	To maintain control over Celeste and his image	His death exposes his true nature and impacts major plot developments
Renata Klein	Powerful, career-oriented, perceived as an adversary	To excel in her career while being a good mother	Learns empathy and solidarity with other women

“Big Little Lies” masterfully explores the depths of its characters, offering readers a mirror to the complexities of real-life struggles and triumphs. Through their journeys, Moriarty illuminates the resilience of the human spirit and the power of friendship and solidarity.

Themes and Symbols

“Big Little Lies” by Liane Moriarty is rich with themes and symbols that explore the complexities of human nature, relationships, and society. Here’s a closer look at some of the major themes and symbols that stand out in the narrative.

Themes

Secrets and Lies — The foundation of the novel revolves around the secrets and lies that the characters harbor and how these untruths shape their lives and relationships. The title itself is a nod to the facades people maintain, often to hide pain, shame, or fear. This theme underscores the idea that truth, though sometimes painful, is liberating.

Domestic Violence — A central and harrowing theme of the novel, domestic violence is explored through Celeste’s marriage to Perry. Moriarty delves into the complexity of abuse, showing how it is concealed by both victim and perpetrator and the profound impact it has on victims’ psyche and choices.

Friendship and Solidarity Among Women — The bond between Madeline, Celeste, and Jane illustrates the power of female friendship and mutual support. Their solidarity is a testament to the strength found in shared experiences and the collective resilience in facing life’s challenges.

Motherhood and Family Dynamics — The novel presents a nuanced view of motherhood and family, exploring the joys, challenges, and societal pressures faced by mothers. It also addresses themes of blended families, parental expectations, and the idea that there is no one-size-fits-all approach to parenting.

Justice and Revenge — The pursuit of justice, both legally and morally, is a driving force for the characters, particularly Jane. The novel questions the lengths to which individuals will go to seek justice or revenge and the blurred lines between the two.

Symbols

The School Trivia Night — Serving as both the opening and the climax of the novel, the trivia night symbolizes the unraveling of the community’s secrets and lies. It’s a pivotal moment where the facade of perfection is stripped away, revealing the truth beneath.

Blue Hydrangeas — Flowers, specifically blue hydrangeas, appear throughout the novel as a symbol of gratitude and regret. They represent the complexities of the characters’ relationships, particularly the mix of beauty and pain in Celeste’s marriage.

The Ziggy Stardust Costume — Ziggy’s costume for the school event symbolizes Jane’s attempt to connect with her son and her past. It also represents Ziggy’s innocence amidst the adult complexities surrounding him.

**Big Little Lies” masterfully intertwines these themes and symbols, offering readers a rich tapestry that reflects the multifaceted nature of life. Through its narrative, the novel invites readers to ponder the impact of secrets, the strength found in unity, and the enduring hope for justice and healing.

Style and Tone

Liane Moriarty’s “Big Little Lies” is celebrated not just for its compelling plot and complex characters but also for its distinctive writing style and tone. Let’s delve into these aspects to understand how they contribute to the mood and atmosphere of the book.

Writing Style

Conversational and Accessible — Moriarty’s writing style is notably conversational, making the narrative accessible and engaging to a broad audience. This approach invites readers into the world of Pirriwee, as if they are part of the community, witnessing the events firsthand.
Multiple Perspectives — The novel employs a multiple point-of-view technique, allowing readers to see the story through the eyes of Madeline, Celeste, and Jane. This method provides a multifaceted view of the events and characters, adding depth and complexity to the narrative.
Flashbacks and Foreshadowing — Moriarty masterfully uses flashbacks and foreshadowing to build suspense and enrich the story’s context. By revealing key pieces of information in a non-linear fashion, she keeps readers guessing and engaged, enhancing the mystery element of the plot.
Interwoven Humor — Despite tackling serious themes, Moriarty weaves humor throughout the narrative, adding a layer of relatability and warmth to the story. This balance of light and dark moments reflects the complexities of life and human nature.

Tone

Empathetic and Insightful — The tone of “Big Little Lies” is deeply empathetic, offering insightful reflections on the characters’ thoughts and feelings. Moriarty’s ability to capture the inner lives of her characters in a nuanced and compassionate manner invites readers to empathize with their struggles and triumphs.
Suspenseful and Intriguing — The novel maintains a suspenseful and intriguing tone, keeping readers on the edge of their seats as the mystery unfolds. Moriarty expertly crafts a sense of anticipation, driving the narrative forward and compelling readers to piece together the puzzle of the story.
Reflective and Thought-Provoking — “Big Little Lies” prompts readers to reflect on broader societal issues, such as domestic violence, parenthood, and the masks people wear. The thought-provoking tone encourages readers to consider their perceptions and judgments about the characters and their own lives.

Through her unique writing style and tone, Liane Moriarty creates a captivating and immersive reading experience in “Big Little Lies.” Her approach not only entertains but also invites readers to ponder the complexities of human relationships and the power of truth and solidarity.

Literary Devices used in Big Little Lies

Liane Moriarty’s “Big Little Lies” employs a variety of literary devices that enrich the narrative and deepen the reader’s engagement with the story. Here are the top 10 literary devices used in the book, highlighting how each contributes to the overall impact of the novel.

Irony — Moriarty uses irony to underscore the contrast between the characters’ public facades and their private realities, particularly in the context of the seemingly perfect lives of the parents at Pirriwee Public School. This device adds layers of meaning to the narrative, encouraging readers to look beyond appearances.
Foreshadowing — Throughout the novel, Moriarty drops hints about the events leading up to the pivotal trivia night, building suspense and anticipation. This technique keeps readers engaged, trying to piece together the clues before the big reveal.
Flashback — The use of flashbacks is crucial in revealing the backstories of key characters, especially Jane and Celeste. These glimpses into the past provide context for their motivations and actions, enhancing the emotional depth of the story.
Symbolism — Symbols, such as the blue hydrangeas and the Ziggy Stardust costume, add a layer of complexity to the narrative, representing themes of regret, innocence, and identity. Moriarty uses these symbols to evoke deeper meanings and connections within the story.
Metaphor — Metaphorical language enriches the descriptive passages of the book, particularly in relation to the characters’ emotions and the scenic coastal setting. Metaphors help convey the intensity of the characters’ experiences and the beauty of the landscape.
Simile — Similes are used to draw comparisons that illuminate the characters’ personalities and situations. By likening aspects of the characters’ lives to familiar images, Moriarty makes their experiences more relatable to the reader.
Personification — The personification of certain elements, such as the ocean, adds a poetic quality to the narrative. This device helps to create a vivid, immersive setting and reflects the characters’ emotional states.
Hyperbole — Exaggeration is employed for both comedic effect and to underscore the intensity of certain situations. Hyperbole enhances the drama and humor of the story, adding to its overall entertainment value.
Dialogue — The sharp, witty dialogue between characters is a hallmark of Moriarty’s writing style. It serves not only to reveal character traits but also to advance the plot and weave humor throughout the narrative.
Imagery — Rich imagery is used to paint vivid pictures of the setting, characters, and events. Through detailed descriptions, Moriarty transports readers to the world of Pirriwee, allowing them to fully immerse themselves in the story.

By skillfully integrating these literary devices, Liane Moriarty creates a multi-layered narrative that is both entertaining and thought-provoking. “Big Little Lies” stands out as a work that expertly balances suspense, humor, and emotional depth.

Literary Devices Examples

Let’s dive into specific examples of the top 10 literary devices used in “Big Little Lies” by Liane Moriarty, illustrating how each enhances the narrative and deepens the reader’s understanding and engagement with the story.

Irony

Example 1: The community of Pirriwee appears perfect on the surface, but as the story unfolds, it’s revealed to be filled with secrets and lies.
Example 2: Celeste is envied for her seemingly perfect marriage, which is actually abusive.
Example 3: The parents’ aggressive behavior at the school meeting contrasts with their expectation for their children to behave.

Foreshadowing

Example 1: Early mentions of the trivia night without revealing the death hint at a significant event.
Example 2: Jane’s flashbacks to a traumatic night foreshadow the revelation of Ziggy’s father.
Example 3: Celeste’s visits to a therapist hint at her planning to leave Perry.

Flashback

Example 1: Jane recalls her encounter with Ziggy’s father, gradually revealing her trauma.
Example 2: Celeste’s memories of Perry’s violence expose the depth of her turmoil.
Example 3: Madeline reflects on her past, explaining her current relationships and fears.

Symbolism

Example 1: Blue hydrangeas symbolize both Celeste’s gratitude and her regret over her marriage.
Example 2: The Ziggy Stardust costume represents Jane’s attempt to connect with Ziggy and her past.
Example 3: The ocean symbolizes the characters’ tumultuous emotions and the secrets lurking beneath calm surfaces.

Metaphor

Example 1: Celeste’s marriage is likened to a war zone, indicating the constant tension and battles she faces.
Example 2: Jane’s journey is metaphorically described as navigating through a storm, representing her struggles with trauma.
Example 3: The trivia night is a metaphorical battleground where hidden conflicts come to light.

Simile

Example 1: Jane’s fear is described as “like a shadow, always lurking behind her,” illustrating the constant presence of her trauma.
Example 2: Madeline’s anger at her ex-husband is “like a fire, burning uncontrollably,” depicting the intensity of her emotions.
Example 3: The atmosphere of the trivia night is “like a ticking bomb,” suggesting the impending chaos.

Personification

Example 1: The ocean is described as “whispering secrets,” giving it a mysterious, life-like quality.
Example 2: The wind is personified as “carrying whispers through the town,” spreading rumors and secrets.
Example 3: The night of the trivia event is described as “holding its breath,” anticipating the unfolding drama.

Hyperbole

Example 1: Madeline’s reaction to minor inconveniences is often exaggerated, “the end of the world,” to highlight her dramatic nature.
Example 2: The description of the school’s competitive environment is exaggerated, “a gladiator arena,” to emphasize the intensity of parental involvement.
Example 3: Celeste’s descriptions of her home’s beauty are hyperbolic, emphasizing the contrast between its appearance and her hidden suffering.

Dialogue

Example 1: Sharp exchanges between Madeline and Renata reveal their rivalry and character traits.
Example 2: Conversations between Celeste and her therapist subtly reveal her inner conflict and decision-making process.
Example 3: Jane and Madeline’s dialogues highlight their growing friendship and mutual support.

Imagery

Example 1: Detailed descriptions of Pirriwee’s coastal setting evoke a vivid sense of place.
Example 2: The violent imagery associated with Celeste’s experiences of abuse starkly contrasts with the serene environment.
Example 3: The chaos of the trivia night is vividly depicted, immersing the reader in the climactic event.

Through these examples, we see how Liane Moriarty skillfully uses literary devices to build a rich, multi-dimensional narrative in “Big Little Lies,” enhancing both the storytelling and the themes explored within the novel.

Big Little Lies – FAQs

Q: What is the main theme of “Big Little Lies”?
A: The main theme of “Big Little Lies” revolves around secrets and lies, and how they impact the lives of the characters and their relationships. It also explores domestic violence, the power of female friendship, motherhood, and the societal pressure to maintain a facade of perfection.

Q: Who killed Perry Wright, and why?
A: Perry Wright is accidentally killed by Bonnie Carlson during the school trivia night. Bonnie pushes Perry down the stairs in a moment of chaos, after it’s revealed that he is the perpetrator of abuse against Celeste and also the man who assaulted Jane, resulting in Ziggy’s birth. Bonnie’s action is partly driven by her own traumatic past involving domestic violence.

Q: How does “Big Little Lies” portray the theme of domestic violence?
A: “Big Little Lies” portrays domestic violence through Celeste and Perry’s relationship. The novel delves into the complexities of abuse, including the victim’s conflicting feelings of love and fear, the perpetrator’s manipulation, and the difficulty of escaping such relationships. It highlights the importance of support systems and the courage required to leave an abusive partner.

Q: What role do the children play in the story?
A: The children in “Big Little Lies” play significant roles in advancing the plot and deepening the themes. Through their experiences at school and their relationships with their parents, the novel explores themes of bullying, the innocence of youth, and the impact of adult issues on children. The children’s stories are interwoven with those of their parents, illustrating how family dynamics and societal pressures affect them.

Q: Can “Big Little Lies” be considered a feminist novel?
A: Yes, “Big Little Lies” can be considered a feminist novel to a certain extent. It focuses on the lives, struggles, and resilience of its female protagonists, addressing issues such as domestic violence, sexual assault, and the challenges of motherhood. The novel celebrates female solidarity and empowerment, highlighting the strength women can draw from supporting each other.

Q: How does Liane Moriarty use humor in “Big Little Lies”?
A: Liane Moriarty uses humor in “Big Little Lies” to balance the novel’s darker themes and to add depth to her characters. Humor is often found in the dialogue between characters, particularly Madeline’s witty remarks, and in the depiction of everyday absurdities in the lives of the parents and their interactions. This use of humor makes the story more relatable and provides moments of levity amidst the tension.

Q: What is the significance of the setting in “Big Little Lies”?
A: The setting of Pirriwee, a coastal town in Australia, plays a crucial role in “Big Little Lies.” The scenic beauty and tranquil environment contrast with the turmoil in the characters’ lives, emphasizing the theme of hidden conflicts beneath a perfect surface. The close-knit community setting also facilitates the interconnection of the characters’ stories and the unraveling of secrets.

Quiz

Question	A	B	C	D
What event serves as the book’s central mystery?	The school’s annual bake sale	The school trivia night	A beachside wedding	A community parade
Who is revealed to be the father of Jane’s child?	Ed Mackenzie	Nathan Carlson	Tom	Perry Wright
What significant issue does Celeste face in her marriage?	Financial difficulties	Domestic violence	Infidelity	Communication problems
How does Madeline’s ex-husband complicate her life?	By moving away with her daughter	By moving into her community with his new wife	By starting a competing business	By revealing Madeline’s secrets
What ultimately happens to Perry Wright?	He leaves town	He is arrested	He is accidentally killed	He reconciles with Celeste
What theme is NOT explored in “Big Little Lies”?	The façade of a perfect life	The importance of female friendships	Time travel	The impact of secrets and lies

This quiz is designed to test your comprehension and recall of key plot points, character relationships, and themes explored in “Big Little Lies” by Liane Moriarty. Each question focuses on a different aspect of the book, providing a broad overview of the story’s complexities.

Exercise

Identify the literary devices used in the following excerpt from “Big Little Lies”:

Madeline’s laughter was like a bright, tinkling melody that filled the air with a lightness, a contrast to the heavy secret that sat in her heart like a stone. The ocean beside them whispered secrets of its own, a constant murmur that promised to keep the tales of the night safe within its depths. The trivia night loomed ahead, a shadow on the horizon, full of foreboding and unspoken fears. Jane watched her son Ziggy play, his innocence a stark contrast to the complexities brewing in the adult world around him.

Answers:

Simile — “Madeline’s laughter was like a bright, tinkling melody” compares Madeline’s laughter to a melody, suggesting its pleasant and uplifting quality.
Metaphor — “The heavy secret that sat in her heart like a stone” uses a metaphor to describe the weight and discomfort of carrying a secret.
Personification — “The ocean beside them whispered secrets” gives the ocean human-like qualities, suggesting it’s a keeper of secrets.
Foreshadowing — “The trivia night loomed ahead, a shadow on the horizon” foreshadows the significant events that will occur during the trivia night.
Contrast — The innocence of Ziggy playing is contrasted with the “complexities brewing in the adult world,” highlighting the innocence of children amidst adult issues.

This exercise encourages students to closely read and analyze text for the use of literary devices, enhancing their understanding of how these devices contribute to the narrative and themes of “Big Little Lies.”