Insights from the ‘White Lotus’ Season 3 Books on Character Development

After garnering over 600,000 views on that TikTok, Edwards told TODAY.com that he continues to seek out novels in Season 3 to share his discoveries with his audience and other “White Lotus” aficionados.

“While knowing the titles and meanings isn’t essential, it certainly adds depth,” Edwards remarks. “They’re delightful Easter eggs that provide additional context about the characters, and if you’re observant enough to catch them, it’s a thrilling pursuit.”

Edwards has produced additional videos analyzing the seemingly intentional choices behind the books characters read in “White Lotus” Seasons 1 and 2.

Having spotted several books in the initial episodes of Season 3, it was Episode 4 where numerous titles prominently appeared — though some investigative effort was necessary on Edwards’ part, he claims.

“Let’s just say, Mike White doesn’t make it straightforward for us, as these books are quite obscure,” Edwards chuckles, referring to the show’s creator.

At 26 years old, Edwards is putting his English literature degree and online sleuthing skills to the test to uncover the books that the characters in “The White Lotus” are reading.

“I used to joke that my English degree was just a long-term strategy for mastering pub quizzes, but apparently, it also helps with identifying books in ‘The White Lotus,’” he grins.

Edwards expresses appreciation for the meticulous attention to detail in the show’s props and wardrobe design, which encourages viewers to contemplate what they see each week instead of binge-watching the entire season in one go.

“There’s something quite enjoyable and satisfying about taking the time to savor a show like this, especially with its weekly rollout,” Edwards observes. “I think that’s why we’re witnessing an explosion of theories and discussions about what could unfold.”

Here are the books featured in Season 3 of “The White Lotus” and the potential implications for the characters based on their readings.

‘Hunger’ by Knut Hamsun

Lochlan (Sam Nivola) is seen with one of the first books in Season 3. In Episode 4, Lochlan’s older brother Saxon (Patrick Schwarzenegger) inquires about his activity, to which Lochlan responds that he’s reading. Saxon then asks, “Why?”

According to Edwards, this interaction highlights the contrast between the two siblings. Although they share similar backgrounds, one has an appreciation for reading while the other does not.

“One character is curious and eager to learn, while the other is like a nepo baby who has had everything provided for him,” he explains. “This dynamic illustrates the difference in who chooses to engage with literature.”

During the scene, Lochlan moments briefly holds the book, which Edwards meticulously analyzed frame by frame until he could clearly identify the cover. He ultimately recognized it as an Oxford World’s Classics edition.

“So I Googled, ‘How many Oxford World’s Classics are there?’ and was met with a horror movie sound effect upon realizing there were 929. But I am nothing if not dedicated to the task, so I went through them,” he recounts, noting the existence of a comprehensive Oxford archive online.

On the last page, Edwards finally spotted a cover that looked recognizable: “Hunger” by Knut Hamsun.

According to the book’s synopsis, “Hunger” follows an aspiring writer struggling to make ends meet in the city. The narrative oscillates between a rational appraisal of his plight and explosive moments of anger and despair.

“Upon researching, I discovered it’s about a young man striving for self-establishment, filled with unease and sensitivity,” Edwards notes. “This aligns so well with Lochlan’s character.”

“I believe there is intentionality in who reads and who does not,” he adds.

‘Surrounded by Narcissists’ by Thomas Erikson

Belinda (Natasha Rothwell) is first shown reading a book alone by the pool. However, she soon puts it aside to go inside to research Greg (Jon Gries).

After she places the book on her desk, Edwards noticed part of the cover displaying the words “Surrounded By,” allowing him to deduce it as “Surrounded by Narcissists” by Thomas Erikson.

The book outlines the traits of narcissists and guides readers on managing others’ narcissistic traits to lead a more fulfilling life, as detailed in the book’s blurb.

“Once again, this seems very calculated,” he states. “Belinda seems to grasp the dynamics of the hotel. During a Full Moon Party in Thailand — a festive occasion — everyone else seems disengaged, while Belinda is acutely aware of her environment and the social structures around her.”

“It’s evident that Belinda possesses self-awareness that is lacking in other characters regarding their social standing and place within the hierarchy,” he elaborates. “This commentary feels entertaining for those who are observant.”

In Episode 5, Belinda is again seen with the book while trying to unwind in her room when she becomes distracted by a noise (which turns out to be the lizard Pornchai evicting from her space).

‘The Beautiful and the Damned’ by F. Scott Fitzgerald

Throughout Season 3, Parker Posey’s character Victoria Ratliff is often seen engrossed in F. Scott Fitzgerald’s “The Beautiful and the Damned.”

The title’s implications seem particularly relevant to her character, according to Edwards.

“This family is striking, there’s no denying their strong genes,” he remarks. “However, from this episode, it’s evident that they are fated for downfall.”

Widely believed to be inspired by Fitzgerald’s tumultuous relationship with his wife, Zelda, “The Beautiful and the Damned” tracks the life of a 25-year-old Harvard graduate who falls passionately in love and enters a tumultuous marriage. The couple indulges in a life of luxury under the expectation of receiving inheritance money, yet their opulent lifestyle leads to their demise and the collapse of their relationship.

“The narrative delves into themes of success, wealth, and the survival of relationships amid adversity,” he adds.

Additionally, the book addresses issues related to substance abuse — particularly alcoholism. “I think we’re noting a stronger focus on substance abuse references throughout the show. This too appears very intentional,” Edwards comments.

Chelsea’s Reading

Aimee Lou Wood’s character Chelsea is also depicted with a book during the season, although Edwards admits he hasn’t caught a clear enough view to identify its title.

“I need more clips of her reading. Every time I think, ‘Come on Mike. Just one more angle this time, please!’ However, it seems they’re released piece by piece throughout the series, so fingers crossed for the next episode,” he shares. “Just know, if they show a clip of her reading that book clearly, I’ll be celebrating at home.”

Some Reddit users have speculated that the book might be “Start Where You Are: How to Accept Yourself and Others” by Pema Chodron due to its light purple cover, but it remains uncertain if that is indeed the book Chelsea is engaged with this season.

The book description mentions that through slogans and meditation practices, readers confront their inner struggles and explore joy.

Piper’s Reading

Piper (Sarah Catherine Hook) is also observed reading a book entitled “The Loving Kindness” in Season 3, although Edwards speculates it might be a book specifically created for her character.

In Episode 5, Piper discloses to her parents that her motivation for going to Thailand to write her thesis isn’t what she claimed — instead, she wishes to live in the country to study under a monk.

“I suspect it’s a fictional book, aimed at reflecting the monk she aspires to learn from,” Edwards suggests. “It’s intriguing to note her readiness to engage with text, finding it less daunting than potentially confronting the actual person who might challenge her.”