Books matching: delusions of grandeur
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- #1
Save:A classic Brazilian novel with a razor-sharp wit and deep philosophical undercurrents; essential reading for fans of literary fiction and social satire - just be choosy about your edition!
Quincas Borba by Machado de Assis is a philosophical fiction masterpiece that delves into themes of humanitism and selfishness. The novel follows the legacy left by the eponymous character, exploring Brazilian selfishness and delusions of grandeur with a touch of humor despite the grim subject matter. Quincas Borba, the philosopher and friend of Bras Cubas, provides a formalized philosophy to the narrative that echoes various philosophical concepts like Schopenhauer, Nietzsche, and Eastern religion, pointing towards the Buddhist notion of maya and the absurdity behind existence.
Posthumous Memories of Bras Cubas, another work by Machado de Assis, continues to resonate with readers from Rio, portraying the city as beautiful, unpredictable, and unjust. The novel reflects on historical buildings, monuments, and the lack of community in the city, while also commenting on social and economic conditions through characters like Marcella. Machado skillfully weaves in critiques of the alienation of upper classes and the use of theories to justify crimes, creating a rich narrative that encompasses societal issues and philosophical musings.
1891•295 pages - #2
Save:Weird, witty, and unsettling - Gogol’s "Diary of a Madman" is a classic short story that’s equal parts hilarious and haunting. Give it a try for a glimpse into literary madness!
"Diary of a Madman" by Nikolai Gogol is a collection of short stories that delves into themes of madness, absurdity, and social satire. The protagonist in the titular story gradually descends into madness, believing himself to be the King of Spain. The writing style is described as funny, frightening, and thought-provoking, with elements of satire and absurdity intertwined throughout the narratives. Gogol's storytelling captures the protagonist's erratic thoughts and actions, creating an unsettling yet engaging reading experience.
A strange occurrence has taken place to-day. I got up fairly late, and when Mawra brought me my clean boots, I asked her how late it was. When I heard it had long struck ten, I dressed as quickly as p...1835•84 pages - #3
Save:A sci-fi classic packed with brilliant ideas and jaw-dropping world-building, but not for those seeking nuanced characters or progressive social themes. Worth reading if you want to experience a landmark of the genre!
In Larry Niven's 'Ringworld', readers are taken on a journey to a massive artificial world that serves as the backdrop for a story involving two humans and two aliens exploring its mysteries. The book delves into themes of exploration, alien civilizations, and the mind-boggling vastness of the Ringworld itself. Niven's writing style combines detailed scientific concepts with sociological exploration, creating a backdrop for characters to navigate through a world beyond imagination.
His foot-length queue was as white and shiny as artificial snow. His skin and depilated scalp were chrome yellow; the irises of his eyes were gold; his robe was royal blue with a golden stereoptic dra...1970•335 pages - #4
Save:A chaotic, sometimes hilarious, sometimes maddening portrait of youthful delusion and rage - recommended for Fante fans and lovers of gritty literary misfits, but maybe skip if you need a hero you can root for.
"The Road to Los Angeles" by John Fante follows the life of Arturo Gabriel Bandini, a young writer with a narcissistic personality, portrayed as pretentious, lazy, and abrasive. The story delves into Bandini's struggles and failures as he navigates through life with his overactive mind and violent tendencies. The writing style is described as a mix of good and bad, showcasing Fante's potential as a writer but also highlighting the flaws in character development and plot progression.
I had a lot of jobs in Los Angeles Harbor because our family was poor and my father was dead. My first job was ditchdigging a short time after I graduated from high school. Every night I couldn’t slee...2000•177 pages
(Also, see 100 recommendations for the series The Saga of Arturo Bandini ) - #5
Save:A masterfully written and wickedly entertaining portrait of a literary monster - hilarious, biting, and quietly sad. You don't have to love Angel to be riveted by her story.
'Angel' by Elizabeth Taylor is a novel that follows the rise and decline of the title character, Angelica Deverell, a bestselling author known for her tasteless yet successful novels. The story depicts Angel's journey from a young girl born into poverty to a celebrated author, showcasing her self-absorbed and disdainful nature. Set against the backdrop of the English class system in the early 20th century, the novel explores Angel's relationships with her family and friends, who oscillate between protective love and exasperation towards her. Elizabeth Taylor's writing style in 'Angel' is described as clear and rich in vocabulary, creating a memorable cast of characters and offering a great escape read for the readers.
“Yes, the sky,” Miss Dawson said suspiciously. She handed the exercise-book to Angel, feeling baffled. The girl had a great reputation as a liar and when this strange essay had been handed in—“A Storm...1957•252 pages - #6
Save:A stylish, wickedly witty exploration of madness and artistic delusion - definitely not Nabokov’s most accessible or lovable novel, but a fascinating showcase of everything that makes his writing unique. Approach for the gamesmanship and gorgeous prose, not the whodunit!
Despair by Vladimir Nabokov is a dark and strange murder tale that delves into the mind of an unreliable narrator named Hermann. The story follows Hermann, a Russian emigre businessman, who becomes obsessed with a tramp in Prague whom he believes to be his exact double. As Hermann hatches a plan to profit off their shared likeness, the narrative unfolds into a twisted plot of deception and madness. The book is narrated in a playful yet droll style, characteristic of Nabokov's intricate and dazzling prose.
If I were not perfectly sure of my power to write and of my marvelous ability to express ideas with the utmost grace and vividness … So, more or less, I had thought of beginning my tale. Further, I sh...1934•229 pages A wild, inventive ride through speculative fiction’s golden age - full of brilliance, brash ideas, and a lot to ponder. The presentation has flaws, but Bester’s short fiction is still a must for classic sci-fi fans.
Alfred Bester's 'Virtual Unrealities' is a collection of short fiction that showcases his unique perspective on childhood fantasies, time travel, and the consequences of wishes. The stories range from hard Sci-Fi to dark narratives, all delivered in Bester's distinctive writing style that combines rhythm and enchantment with satirical elements. The book explores themes of psychological maturity, delusions, and the need to grow up, all wrapped in playful typesetting and creative storytelling techniques.
There are fighting generals (vital to an army),political generals (vital to an administration),and public relations generals (vital to a war). General Carpenter was a master of public relations. Forth...1976•384 pages- #8
Save:A brilliantly strange, mind-bending classic that will creep under your skin - perfect for readers who love ambiguity and unreliable narrators.
The Repairer of Reputations is a powerful and unsettling short story by Robert W. Chambers. It features a deeply unreliable narrator named Hildred who grapples with mental instability and paranoia. Hildred's interactions with a mysterious figure, Mr. Wilde, spiral into a nightmarish narrative filled with delusions of grandeur and conspiracy. The plot raises questions about reality versus perception, culminating in a confusing yet gripping climax that leaves readers questioning what is true and what is imagined.
Chambers' writing style is atmospheric and evokes a sense of dread without relying on graphic horror. His masterful use of language creates an unsettling tone that grips the reader from the first page. The story subtly hints at the narrator's deteriorating mental state through his erratic thoughts and delusions. This haunting tale serves as a compelling exploration of madness and the fragility of the mind.
- #9
Save:A cornerstone of modern Chinese literature - short, sharp, and socially insightful. Best appreciated by those open to historical context, satire, and the nuances of flawed characters.
The True Story of Ah Q by Lu Xun is a novella that delves into the life of Ah Q, a man who continuously faces humiliation and defeat. The book serves as a sharp satire on the corruption of Chinese society at the time, exploring themes of injustice and the human experience. Through a series of encounters with others, the protagonist is portrayed as a selfish and obnoxious figure, yet the narrative sheds light on the flaws and pitiful nature of Ah Q, presenting a critique of both events and their recounting.
1918•160 pages - #10
Save:Epic adventure, epic storytelling - a captivating look at courage, madness, and the irresistible call of the open sea. Highly recommended for armchair adventurers and fans of true stories alike.
'A Voyage For Madmen' by Peter Nichols is a gripping recount of the Golden Globe race of 1968, where nine sailors set out to circumnavigate the world nonstop, facing challenges of loneliness, fear, and madness. The book delves into the personal stories of each participant, showcasing their varying levels of experience and motivations for embarking on this daring adventure. Nichols' writing style expertly weaves together tales of human endeavor, tragedy, and triumph, painting a vivid picture of the unique and dangerous world of solo yacht racing in the late 1960s.
A tall, thin, balding man with thick-lensed glasses, Chichester looked more like a prep school headmaster than an adventurer. He owned a small book and map shop in London. He was a vegetarian. But the...1997•333 pages
