Carry On

by Rainbow Rowell • 2015 • 522 pages

4.16

327.5K ratings

Young Adult Queer Magic

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Plot Summary

Simon's Unsettling Return to Watford

Simon returns to Watford, feeling uneasy

Simon Snow, the Chosen One, returns to Watford School of Magicks for his final year, burdened by his destiny and the threat of the Insidious Humdrum. His nemesis, Baz, is missing, and Simon is haunted by nightmares. The school, once a sanctuary, now feels different as Simon grapples with his unpredictable power and strained relationships, particularly with Agatha. His best friend, Penelope, remains his steadfast ally. As Simon navigates the familiar halls, he senses an underlying tension, hinting at the challenges ahead.

Baz's Mysterious Disappearance Explained

Baz returns with secrets and scars

Baz Pitch, Simon's enigmatic rival, reappears at Watford after a mysterious absence, looking worse for wear. His return raises questions, especially about his family's involvement in the war against the Mage. Despite their animosity, Simon is drawn to Baz's plight, particularly after learning about Baz's mother's death at the hands of vampires. The tension between them is palpable, but Simon senses that Baz's return holds significant implications for their world.

Unlikely Allies: A Truce is Formed

Simon and Baz form a truce

Despite their history of enmity, Simon and Baz form an uneasy truce to uncover the truth behind Baz's mother's death. Simon learns that Baz's mother visited him from beyond the Veil, urging him to find Nicodemus, who holds the key to her murder. The Truce is sealed with magic, binding them to their shared quest. Simon is determined to help Baz, not just for Baz's sake, but because the attack on Watford is a threat to them all. Their alliance is fragile, but necessary.

The Dragon Attack and Magical Revelation

A dragon attack reveals Simon's power

A dragon attacks Watford, sent by the Humdrum, forcing Simon and Baz to collaborate. During the battle, Simon discovers he can channel his magic into others, amplifying their spells. This revelation is both exhilarating and terrifying, offering a glimpse of control over his chaotic power. The dragon is subdued, but the attack leaves the school on edge, and Simon's newfound ability raises questions about his role in the ongoing war.

Secrets, Ghosts, and Unanswered Questions

Ghostly visitations and hidden truths

Simon grapples with ghostly visitations from Baz's mother, who reveals cryptic messages about her death. The mystery of Nicodemus looms large, and Simon is determined to uncover the truth. Meanwhile, Penelope deals with her own family issues as the Mage's Men search for dark magic. The tension between the Mage and the Old Families escalates, and Simon is caught in the middle. As secrets unravel, Simon realizes that the answers they seek may be more dangerous than they imagined.

The Humdrum's True Nature Revealed

Simon confronts his magical shadow

Simon encounters the Humdrum, a manifestation of his own magical excesses, which has been causing the dead spots. The Humdrum, resembling a younger Simon, reveals that it is not a separate entity but an echo of Simon's power. This revelation shifts the understanding of the Humdrum from a villain to a consequence of Simon's uncontrolled magic. The encounter forces Simon to confront the reality that his immense power has been inadvertently harming the magical world.

Simon's Sacrifice and Transformation

Simon gives up his magic

In a climactic moment, Simon decides to end the cycle of destruction by giving all his magic to the Humdrum, effectively neutralizing it. This act of self-sacrifice leaves Simon without magic, fundamentally altering his identity. The transformation is both a loss and a liberation, as Simon is no longer burdened by the expectations of being the Chosen One. This decision marks a turning point, freeing the magical world from the threat of the Humdrum.

The Mage's Betrayal Uncovered

The Mage's dark secrets are exposed

The Mage, once a revered leader, is revealed to have orchestrated the events leading to the chaos, including the attack on Watford. His manipulations and willingness to sacrifice others for his vision of reform are laid bare. The Mage's death, a result of his own machinations, leaves a power vacuum and forces the magical community to reevaluate its leadership and values. This betrayal underscores the theme of power's corrupting influence.

A New World Without Magic

Simon adjusts to life as a Normal

With his magic gone, Simon faces the challenge of living as a Normal in a world where he was once a hero. This new reality is both daunting and freeing, as Simon navigates relationships and personal identity without the crutch of magic. The absence of magic in Simon's life symbolizes a broader shift in the magical world, prompting a reevaluation of what it means to be powerful and influential.

Rebuilding Lives and Relationships

Characters find new paths forward

In the aftermath of the Mage's downfall and Simon's transformation, the characters must rebuild their lives. Baz and Simon explore their relationship beyond the confines of Watford, while Penelope and Agatha pursue their own paths. The focus shifts from magical battles to personal growth and healing, highlighting the resilience of the characters as they adapt to a changed world.

A Future Beyond Watford

Hope and new beginnings emerge

The story concludes with a sense of hope and possibility as the characters look to the future. Simon, Baz, and their friends embrace new opportunities and challenges, leaving behind the burdens of their past. The narrative emphasizes the importance of choice and agency, suggesting that true power lies in the ability to shape one's own destiny, regardless of magical ability.

Characters

Simon Snow

The reluctant hero redefined

Simon is the most powerful magician of his generation, but his magic is volatile and uncontrollable. He struggles with his role as the Chosen One, destined to save the magickal world from the Insidious Humdrum. Simon is loyal and brave, but his insecurities and self-doubt often cloud his judgment. His relationships with Baz, Agatha, and Penelope are complex, and he is constantly torn between his duty and his desires. Ultimately, Simon's journey culminates in a profound transformation as he relinquishes his magic to save the world, redefining his identity and finding strength in vulnerability and human connection.

Baz Pitch

The loyal and complex ally

Baz is Simon's longtime rival and a member of the prestigious Pitch family. He is intelligent, cunning, and fiercely loyal to his family. Baz's disappearance and return are shrouded in mystery, and he harbors secrets about his family's involvement in the war against the Mage. Despite his animosity towards Simon, Baz is forced to work with him to uncover the truth about his mother's death. His feelings for Simon are complicated, adding another layer to their fraught relationship. Baz's relationship with Simon evolves from rivalry to deep companionship, providing emotional depth and complexity as he navigates a world without the Mage's influence.

Penelope Bunce

The steadfast and resourceful friend

Penelope is Simon's best friend and confidante. She is a powerful magician with a keen intellect and a fierce determination to protect those she loves. Penelope is pragmatic and resourceful, often serving as the voice of reason in Simon's chaotic life. Her loyalty to Simon is unwavering, even as she grapples with her own family's involvement in the magickal conflict. Penelope remains a pillar of support for Simon, using her intelligence and magical prowess to aid their quest, ultimately choosing a path that aligns with her values and aspirations.

Agatha Wellbelove

The independent and self-assured escapee

Agatha is Simon's girlfriend, but their relationship is strained. She is beautiful and poised, but she struggles with the expectations placed on her as Simon's partner. Agatha is drawn to Baz, adding tension to her relationship with Simon. She longs for a life outside the magickal world, free from the burdens of destiny and prophecy. Agatha's decision to leave the magical world reflects her desire for autonomy and a life free from the burdens of prophecy, emphasizing the importance of self-determination and the courage to forge one's own path.

The Mage

The fallen leader and tragic figure

The Mage is the headmaster of Watford and the leader of the magickal world. He is a revolutionary figure, determined to reform the magickal society and protect it from the Humdrum. The Mage is a complex character, both a mentor and a manipulator. His motives are often unclear, and his methods are sometimes ruthless. He sees Simon as a key to his plans, but his true intentions remain a mystery. The Mage's descent from revered leader to antagonist reveals the dangers of unchecked ambition and the corrupting influence of power, serving as a cautionary tale.

Natasha Grimm-Pitch

The heroic mother and ghost

Natasha was the headmistress of Watford and Baz's mother. She died defending the school from a vampire attack, and her ghost returns to urge Baz to find her killer. Natasha is a legendary figure in the magickal world, known for her bravery and powerful magic. Her death is a catalyst for the events that unfold, and her presence looms large over Baz's quest for truth, adding emotional stakes to the narrative.

Plot Devices

The Truce

A fragile alliance with a common goal

The Truce between Simon and Baz is a pivotal plot device that drives the narrative forward. Despite their history of animosity, they are forced to work together to uncover the truth about Baz's mother's death. The Truce is sealed with magic, binding them to their shared quest. It creates tension and uncertainty, as both characters must navigate their complicated feelings and the possibility of betrayal.

The Dragon Attack

A catalyst for revelation and change

The dragon attack on Watford is a significant plot device that reveals Simon's ability to channel his magic into others. It forces Simon and Baz to work together, showcasing their potential as allies. The attack raises the stakes in the ongoing war against the Humdrum and highlights the dangers facing the magickal world. It also serves as a turning point for Simon, as he grapples with the implications of his newfound power.

The Ghostly Visitations

Messages from beyond the Veil

The visitations from Baz's mother are a key plot device that propels the mystery forward. Her cryptic messages about her death and the mysterious Nicodemus drive Simon and Baz's quest for truth. The visitations add an element of supernatural intrigue and underscore the theme of unfinished business. They also deepen the emotional stakes for Baz, as he seeks closure and justice for his mother's murder.

The Humdrum

A manifestation of magical imbalance

The Humdrum, initially perceived as a villain, is revealed to be an echo of Simon's magic. This plot device challenges traditional notions of good and evil, emphasizing the unintended consequences of power. The Humdrum's existence forces characters to confront the impact of their actions and the importance of balance in the magical world.

Simon's Sacrifice

A pivotal act of selflessness

Simon's decision to give up his magic is a transformative moment that reshapes the narrative. This plot device underscores themes of sacrifice, identity, and redemption, highlighting the power of choice and the potential for personal growth. Simon's sacrifice serves as a catalyst for change, both for himself and the magical world.

The Mage's Downfall

The unraveling of a flawed leader

The Mage's betrayal and subsequent death reveal the complexities of leadership and the dangers of absolute power. This plot device explores themes of corruption, ambition, and the consequences of manipulation. The Mage's downfall prompts a reevaluation of authority and governance, paving the way for a new era in the magical world.

Analysis

Themes of identity, power, and choice

"Carry On" by Rainbow Rowell explores the complexities of identity, the burden of power, and the importance of choice. Through Simon's journey, the narrative examines the struggle between destiny and self-determination, highlighting the transformative power of sacrifice and redemption. The book challenges traditional notions of good and evil, emphasizing the unintended consequences of unchecked power. The characters' development underscores the resilience of the human spirit, as they navigate personal growth and healing in a world without magic. Ultimately, "Carry On" is a story about finding strength in vulnerability and the courage to shape one's own destiny.

Last updated: February 3, 2025

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Synopsis & Basic Details

What is Carry On about?

Magical Chosen One's Journey : Carry On follows Simon Snow, a powerful but chaotic magician, as he navigates his final year at Watford School of Magicks, grappling with his destiny, a mysterious enemy, and his complicated relationship with his roommate, Baz.
Subversion of Tropes : The story subverts traditional Chosen One narratives, exploring themes of identity, power, and the complexities of good and evil through a lens of humor and self-awareness.
Romance and Rivalry : At its heart, Carry On is a story about the evolving relationship between Simon and Baz, a mix of rivalry, animosity, and unexpected attraction, set against a backdrop of magical conflict and personal growth.

Why should I read Carry On?

Unique Magical World : The book offers a fresh take on the magical boarding school trope, with a richly detailed world, unique magical systems, and a diverse cast of characters.
Compelling Character Dynamics : The complex relationships between Simon, Baz, Penelope, and Agatha provide emotional depth and compelling character arcs, exploring themes of friendship, love, and rivalry.
Humor and Heart : Carry On blends humor, action, and romance seamlessly, creating a story that is both entertaining and emotionally resonant, with a satisfying balance of lighthearted moments and deeper themes.

What is the background of Carry On?

Magical Society Hidden : The story is set in a world where magic exists alongside the normal world, with magicians living in secret, often attending boarding schools like Watford to learn to control their powers.
Political Tensions : The World of Mages is fraught with political tensions, with old, powerful families vying for control and a growing threat from dark creatures and the mysterious Humdrum.
Prophecy and Destiny : The narrative is influenced by prophecies and destinies, particularly surrounding Simon Snow, who is believed to be the most powerful magician ever known, adding a layer of expectation and pressure to his journey.

What are the most memorable quotes in Carry On?

"You were the centre of my universe. Everything else spun around you." : This quote, spoken by Baz to Simon, encapsulates the intense and all-consuming nature of their relationship, highlighting the deep emotional connection beneath their rivalry.
"I'm not the Chosen One. I'm just a child." : This quote reveals Simon's internal struggle with his destiny and his desire to be seen as an individual, not just a prophesied hero, emphasizing his vulnerability and humanity.
"I choose you. Simon Snow, I choose you." : This quote, spoken by Baz to Simon, signifies a turning point in their relationship, where Baz acknowledges his feelings and makes a conscious decision to be with Simon, regardless of their differences or the expectations placed upon them.

What writing style, narrative choices, and literary techniques does Rainbow Rowell use?

First-Person Perspective : The story is primarily told from Simon's first-person perspective, allowing readers to experience his thoughts, feelings, and insecurities intimately, creating a strong sense of empathy and connection.
Humorous and Conversational Tone : Rowell employs a witty and conversational tone, often using sarcasm and self-deprecating humor, which makes the characters relatable and the story engaging.
Subversion of Genre Conventions : The book subverts traditional fantasy tropes, playing with expectations and offering a fresh take on the Chosen One narrative, while also incorporating elements of romance, mystery, and adventure.

Hidden Details & Subtle Connections

What are some minor details that add significant meaning?

Simon's Shaved Head : Simon's habit of shaving his head at the end of each term symbolizes his desire to shed his old identity and start anew, reflecting his ongoing struggle with self-discovery and his place in the magical world.
The Roommate's Anathema : The spell that prevents roommates from harming each other in their room highlights the complex relationship between Simon and Baz, as they are forced to coexist despite their animosity, creating a space of both tension and unexpected intimacy.
The List of Good Things : Simon's list of things he misses about Watford reveals his deep longing for belonging and stability, emphasizing the importance of the school as a home and a source of comfort for him.

What are some subtle foreshadowing and callbacks?

Candle in the Wind : The song "Candle in the Wind" foreshadows the dangerous nature of Simon's magic and his struggle to control it, as well as the potential for his power to be used for both good and destruction.
The Roommate's Anathema : The Roommate's Anathema, initially presented as a safety measure, foreshadows the deep connection and eventual truce between Simon and Baz, as they are bound together by more than just their shared living space.
The Recurring Phrase "You're a mess, Snow" : This phrase, often used by Baz, becomes a term of endearment, highlighting the evolution of their relationship from animosity to a complex bond built on acceptance and understanding.

What are some unexpected character connections?

Ebb and Natasha Grimm-Pitch: The connection between Ebb, the goatherd, and Natasha Grimm-Pitch, Baz's mother, reveals a shared history and a deeper understanding of the magical world, highlighting the importance of mentorship and the impact of past events on the present.
The Mage and Lucy: The revelation that the Mage had a relationship with Lucy, a powerful magician, adds a layer of complexity to his character, suggesting that his motivations are not solely driven by power but also by personal loss and a desire to control the future.
Nicodemus and Ebb : The connection between Nicodemus and Ebb, as twins, adds a layer of tragedy and complexity to the story, highlighting the impact of the magical world on families and the choices they make.

Who are the most significant supporting characters?

Ebb the Goatherd : Ebb serves as a source of wisdom and comfort for Simon, offering a different perspective on power and responsibility, and her connection to Nicodemus adds a layer of intrigue to the plot.
Premal Bunce : Penelope's brother, Premal, is a member of the Mage's Men, and his actions and loyalties highlight the political tensions within the magical world, and his relationship with his family adds emotional depth.
Dr. Wellbelove : Agatha's father, Dr. Wellbelove, is a Normal doctor who treats magicians, and his perspective on the magical world provides a grounded counterpoint to the more fantastical elements of the story, and his relationship with Simon adds a layer of familial warmth.

Psychological, Emotional, & Relational Analysis

What are some unspoken motivations of the characters?

Simon's Fear of Abandonment : Simon's actions are often driven by a deep-seated fear of abandonment, stemming from his childhood in the care system, which makes him cling to his relationships and his sense of belonging at Watford.
Baz's Desire for Acceptance : Baz's seemingly antagonistic behavior masks a deep desire for acceptance and validation, particularly from his family and the magical community, which he struggles to reconcile with his identity as a vampire.
Penelope's Need for Control : Penelope's meticulous planning and strategic thinking stem from a need for control in a world that often feels chaotic and unpredictable, reflecting her desire to protect those she loves and make a difference.

What psychological complexities do the characters exhibit?

Simon's Imposter Syndrome : Simon's constant self-doubt and feelings of inadequacy, despite his immense power, highlight his struggle with imposter syndrome, as he grapples with the expectations placed upon him as the Chosen One.
Baz's Internal Conflict : Baz's internal conflict between his loyalty to his family and his growing feelings for Simon creates a complex psychological landscape, as he struggles to reconcile his identity as a vampire with his desire for connection and acceptance.
Agatha's Existential Angst : Agatha's desire to escape the magical world and her relationship with Simon reflects her existential angst, as she grapples with her place in a world where her destiny seems predetermined, and she longs for autonomy and self-determination.

What are the major emotional turning points?

Simon's Decision to Give Up His Magic : Simon's decision to give up his magic is a major emotional turning point, as he chooses to sacrifice his power to save the world, highlighting his growth from a reluctant hero to a selfless individual.
Baz's Confession of Love : Baz's confession of love for Simon, though not explicitly stated, marks a significant emotional turning point, as he acknowledges his feelings and chooses to embrace his true self, despite the risks.
Agatha's Decision to Leave : Agatha's decision to leave the magical world is a major emotional turning point, as she chooses to prioritize her own happiness and autonomy over the expectations placed upon her, highlighting her desire for self-determination.

How do relationship dynamics evolve?

Simon and Baz's Relationship : The relationship between Simon and Baz evolves from intense rivalry to a complex bond built on mutual respect, understanding, and unexpected attraction, challenging traditional notions of enemies and lovers.
Simon and Penelope's Friendship : The friendship between Simon and Penelope remains a constant source of support and stability, highlighting the importance of loyalty and shared experiences in navigating personal and magical challenges.
Simon and Agatha's Relationship : The relationship between Simon and Agatha deteriorates as they struggle with their individual desires and expectations, highlighting the challenges of maintaining a relationship when personal growth and self-discovery take different paths.

Interpretation & Debate

Which parts of the story remain ambiguous or open-ended?

The Nature of the Humdrum : The true nature of the Humdrum and its origins remain somewhat ambiguous, leaving room for interpretation about the source of evil and the consequences of unchecked power.
The Future of the Magical World : The future of the magical world after the Mage's death and Simon's loss of power is left open-ended, allowing readers to imagine the possibilities and challenges of a world without a clear leader or a defined path.
The Extent of Simon's Transformation : The extent of Simon's transformation and his ability to live a normal life without magic is left somewhat ambiguous, raising questions about the nature of identity and the possibility of finding happiness outside of destiny.

What are some debatable, controversial scenes or moments in Carry On?

Simon and Baz's Relationship : The romantic relationship between Simon and Baz is a source of debate, with some readers questioning its validity and others celebrating its subversion of traditional tropes, highlighting the complexities of representation and identity.
The Mage's Actions : The Mage's actions and motivations are a source of debate, with some readers viewing him as a tragic figure and others as a villain, highlighting the complexities of power and the blurred lines between good and evil.
Simon's Loss of Magic : Simon's loss of magic is a controversial moment, with some readers viewing it as a sacrifice and others as a tragic loss, highlighting the different perspectives on power and identity.

Carry On Ending Explained: How It Ends & What It Means

Simon's Choice : The ending of Carry On sees Simon choosing to give up his magic, a decision that is both a sacrifice and a liberation, as he chooses to define himself outside of his destiny as the Chosen One.
The Humdrum's Defeat : The Humdrum is defeated not through a traditional battle, but through Simon's act of selflessness, highlighting the power of choice and the importance of balance in the magical world.
A New Beginning : The ending emphasizes the importance of personal growth and healing, as the characters navigate a changed world and forge new paths forward, suggesting that true power lies in the ability to shape one's own destiny, regardless of magical ability.