Books matching: academic satire
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- #1
Save:As She Climbed Across the Table by Jonathan Lethem is a quirky and satirical novel that follows the story of Philip, an anthropology professor, whose physicist girlfriend, Alice, falls in love with a mysterious void named Lack created in her physics lab. The book explores themes of love, academia, and the nature of reality through the lens of a unique love triangle involving a physicist, a social scientist, and 'nothing'. Lethem's writing style combines cleverness, humor, and wit to create a story that delves into the complexities of relationships and human emotions while incorporating elements of science fiction and academic satire.
I knew my way to Alice. I knew where to find her. I walked across campus that night writing a love plan in my head, a map across her body to follow later, when we were back in our apartment. It wouldn... 'Publish And Perish: Three Tales Of Tenure And Terror' by author James Hynes is a collection of three novellas that intertwine elements of horror and academia. The stories delve into the lives of university professors and the challenges they face in their academic careers, often entangled with supernatural occurrences. The writing style is described as richly textured, well-written, and containing elements of black humor, satire, and wit.
SOMETHING WAS WRONG WITH PAUL AND ELIZABETH’S cat, Charlotte. She was peeing outside of the litter box, and driving her owners to distraction. Neither of them was certain what the problem was, but the...- #3
Save:'Lucky Jim' by Kingsley Amis is a humorous novel set in a university environment, following the misadventures of Jim Dixon, a history professor who despises his job and the academic world he is a part of. The story delves into the comedic situations Dixon finds himself in, from dealing with his colleagues and friends to navigating relationships and social expectations. The writing style is described as clever, British, and filled with creative humor that captures the essence of academic life in the 1950s.
“THEY made a silly mistake, though,” the Professor of History said, and his smile, as Dixon watched, gradually sank beneath the surface of his features at the memory. “After the interval we did a litt... - #4
Save:In "The Shakespeare Requirement," author Julie Schumacher continues her satire of academic life, now focusing on Jason Fitger as he navigates his role as the chair of the English department at Payne State University. The story unfolds with humorous and heartfelt moments, highlighting the challenges Fitger faces in dealing with departmental conflicts, personal relationships, and the pressure to redefine the relevance of English studies in the face of opposition.
Schumacher's storytelling in "The Shakespeare Requirement" is a blend of wit and satire, portraying the struggles and triumphs of Fitger and his colleagues in a small liberal arts college setting. The narrative delves into themes of academia, relationships, and the absurdities of university life, all while maintaining a balance of humor and poignancy that keeps readers engaged throughout the story.
(Also, see 100 recommendations for the series Dear Committee ) - #5
Save:Small World by David Lodge is a clever and witty academic satire that follows a group of male and female academics as they travel the globe to attend various conferences. The novel explores the world of academia in a humorous and self-reflexive manner, shedding light on the eccentricities and dynamics within the academic community. Through a mix of romance, humor, and improbable coincidences, Lodge paints a vivid picture of the peripatetic shenanigans and relationships that unfold among the characters.
“APRIL is the cruellest month,” Persse McGarrigle quoted silently to himself, gazing through grimy windowpanes at the unseasonable snow crusting the lawns and flowerbeds of the Rummidge campus. He had... - #6Mooby:
Save:"Moo" by Jane Smiley is a satirical novel set at a Midwestern agricultural university, known as Moo U. The book delves into the inner workings of academia, portraying a large cast of colorful characters from students to faculty members, and even a giant white pig named Earl Butz. The plot unfolds over the course of an academic year in the early 1990s, focusing on the various love liaisons, academic intrigues, and personal issues that are common in university life. Smiley's writing style is described as humorous, witty, and insightful, offering a shrewd and funny commentary on the societal norms and conflicts within the university setting.
FROM THE OUTSIDE it was clear that the building known generally as “Old Meats” had eased under the hegemony of the horticulture department. Its southern approach, once a featureless slope of green law... - #7
Save:'Straight Man' by Richard Russo is a humorous and insightful novel set in the world of academia, specifically focusing on the life of William Henry Devereaux, Jr., an English professor at a mediocre college in Pennsylvania. The book delves into the absurdities and challenges of academic life, showcasing the petty backstabbing, administrative idiocy, and personal struggles faced by the characters. Through witty narration and hilarious characterizations, Russo provides a satirical yet touching portrayal of midlife crises, academic politics, and the complexities of human relationships.
The plot of 'Straight Man' revolves around William Henry Devereaux, Jr., who finds himself embroiled in a week of crises as the acting chairman of the English department. The novel blends humor and pathos, offering a mix of laugh-out-loud moments and quiet insights into the characters' lives. Russo's writing style is praised for its clever observations, sharp wit, and engaging storytelling, making the book a compelling exploration of academia, relationships, and personal growth.
When my nose finally stops bleeding and I’ve disposed of the bloody paper towels, Teddy Barnes insists on driving me home in his ancient Honda Civic, a car that refuses to die and that Teddy, cheap as... - #8
Save:The Lecturer's Tale by James Hynes is a dark comedy that follows the protagonist, Nelson Humboldt, a lecturer at a rural school who gains the power to control others by touching them after a freak accident severs his finger. The book delves into the politics and power struggles within academia, with clever references and satirical elements that provide a humorous picture of life in the academic world. The plot takes a dark turn towards magical realism in the climax, keeping the reader engrossed with plot twists, humor, and a high concept premise.
The novel serves as a satire of modern university life, showcasing the typical characters, politics, and issues in academia with humor and elegance. James Hynes skillfully incorporates literary references, academic jargon, and satire to create a vivid portrayal of the academia in the U.S. during the late 20th and early 21st centuries. The story explores themes of power, academia, and the fine line between reality and fantasy, making it a compelling and thought-provoking read.
Crossing the Quad on a Halloween Friday, as the clock in the library tower tolled thirteen under a windy, dramatic sky, Nelson Humboldt lost his right index finger in a freak accident. Someone called ... - #9
Save:'On Beauty' by Zadie Smith is a story that revolves around two families led by professors who share a deep-rooted animosity towards each other. The narrative delves into themes of family dynamics, academic rivalries, race, and class issues, all set against the backdrop of a university campus. The book offers a modern take on E.M. Forster's 'Howards End,' exploring complex relationships and human interactions with a touch of humor and wit in Smith's distinctive writing style.
The plot unfolds through a series of character-driven storylines, showcasing the intricate lives of the protagonists as they navigate love, academia, marriage, and personal growth. Smith's narrative skillfully weaves together various perspectives, creating a rich tapestry of interconnected lives and exploring the beauty and tragedy that emerge from human relationships.
Well, I’m really enjoying everything. I work in Monty Kipps’s own office (did you know that he’s actually Sir Monty??), which is in the Green Park area. It’s me and a Cornish girl called Emily. She’s ... - #10
Save:The novel 'Blue Angel' by Francine Prose follows the story of Ted Swenson, a creative writing professor at a small liberal arts college, who becomes infatuated with one of his students, Angela Argo. As Swenson's life spirals out of control, the power dynamics between him and his student are explored, revealing the consequences of his actions. The book delves into themes of academia, love, lust, power struggles, and the complexities of relationships in a satirical and humorous tone, while also offering a cautionary tale of self-destruction and confusion.
The plot of 'Blue Angel' intricately weaves together the struggles of a middle-aged professor facing a midlife crisis, his complicated relationships with his wife and daughter, and his ill-fated attraction to a talented student. Through a blend of humor, satire, and social commentary, Francine Prose explores the themes of political correctness, gender dynamics, and the moral dilemmas faced by the characters, ultimately presenting a story that blurs the lines between tragedy and comedy.
Swenson waits for his students to complete their private rituals, adjusting zippers and caps, arranging the pens and notebooks so painstakingly chosen to express their tender young selves, the fidgety...
