Books matching: hallucination exploration
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A witty, mind-expanding dive into the mysteries of the human brain - equal parts science, storytelling, and philosophical wonder. Essential for anyone curious about how our brains shape our reality.
'Phantoms in the Brain: Probing the Mysteries of the Human Mind' by V.S. Ramachandran is a captivating exploration of the complexities of the human brain. Ramachandran's writing style is conversational and engaging, making it easy for readers to connect with his thoughts. The book delves into the mysteries of perception, hallucination, and self-deception, showcasing how the brain processes information and constructs our reality. Through a blend of humor and deeper philosophical views, Ramachandran navigates through a maze of information, pushing readers to ponder the questions he poses about the inner workings of the mind.
A man wearing an enormous bejeweled cross dangling on a gold chain sits in my office, telling me about his conversations with God, the "real meaning" of the cosmos and the deeper truth behind all surf...1998•352 pages- #2
Save:'Biblical' by Christopher Galt (Craig Russell) delves into a world where people around the globe are experiencing mysterious hallucinations, leading to extreme behaviors like suicide and murder. The narrative follows psychiatrist John Macbeth's project involving artificial intelligence, which triggers these unsettling visions. The story unfolds through a multitude of characters, each experiencing detailed and eerie hallucinations, ultimately leading to a surprising twist in the end.
The writing style of 'Biblical' is described as a page-turning apocalyptic adventure with a mix of science fiction elements. The author weaves together a complex narrative filled with scientific commentary, imaginative hallucinations, and a thought-provoking premise that challenges readers to contemplate the nature of reality and consciousness.
Marie Thoulouze felt the air cool suddenly, a seasonal change seeming to take place in the space of a second, but something more than the sudden drop in temperature caused her skin to prickle into goo...September 2014•447 pages - #3
Save:An intense, poetic, and experimental novel that dives deep into the mind’s mysteries - definitely not easy reading, but a unique experience for those willing to take the plunge.
Briefing for a Descent Into Hell by Doris Lessing is a novel that delves into the inner space of a professor who has experienced a break from reality and suffers from memory loss. The story unfolds as the protagonist, Dr. Charles Watkins, is admitted to a mental hospital, where he recounts bizarre dreams and visions, leading to a deeper exploration of his psyche and a journey towards self-discovery. Lessing's writing style intricately weaves together elements of surrealism, psychology, and science fiction, creating a narrative that challenges the boundaries of human understanding and consciousness.
GENERAL REMARKS: At midnight the police found Patient wandering on the Embankment near Waterloo Bridge. They took him into the station thinking he was drunk or drugged. They describe him as Rambling,...1971•295 pages - #4
Save:A challenging but deeply powerful read: Bessie Head's "A Question of Power" is a raw exploration of madness and identity. It's not for everyone, but if you're up for a bold deep dive into a troubled mind and turbulent society, you'll find it haunting and thought-provoking.
'A Question of Power' by Bessie Head follows the story of Elizabeth, a biracial South African woman who moves to Botswana with her son, where she struggles to fit in with the locals due to her racial and ethnic differences. Elizabeth, displaying signs of mental illness, loses her job as a school teacher and immerses herself in a community gardening project. The narrative delves into Elizabeth's descent into madness through terrifying hallucinatory dream sequences directed by two contrasting figures, Sello and Dan. The novel explores themes of alienation, gender oppression, and the impact of apartheid on individuals, presenting a complex and disturbing portrayal of mental illness and societal struggles.
The hallucinations experienced by Elizabeth are a central part of the narrative, adding layers of depth and symbolism to the story. intertwines Elizabeth's personal struggles with broader themes of postcolonial relations and power dynamics, offering a challenging yet insightful exploration of identity, society, and mental health.
June 1972•216 pages - #5
Save:A classic of gothic horror and the uncanny - bizarre, memorable, and influential, but best suited to those who don’t mind an old-school, ornate style or want a deep psychological dive.
The Sandman by E.T.A. Hoffmann, published in 1816, is a classic horror story that delves into psychological and dark themes. The plot revolves around the protagonist Nathanael, who grapples with childhood trauma, hallucinations, and a descent into madness. The narrative blurs the lines between reality and illusion, leaving readers questioning the protagonist's sanity and the existence of supernatural forces like the Sandman and Coppelius. The story is known for its unsettling and creepy atmosphere, with elements of gothic horror and psychological tension that keep readers engaged from start to finish.
1816•212 pages - #6
Save:A wild, poetic, and deeply dark ride - if you’re after neo-noir that’s more fever dream than detective story, "Kiss Me, Judas" will leave a mark. Not for the faint of heart, but unforgettable if you’re up for it.
Kiss Me, Judas by Will Christopher Baer is a neo-noir novel that follows the story of Phineas Poe, a former cop recovering from a nervous breakdown. Poe's life takes a dark turn when he wakes up in a bathtub full of ice and blood, missing a kidney, after a one-night stand with a mysterious woman named Jude. Determined to find his missing organ, Poe embarks on a twisted journey filled with violence, paranoia, hallucinations, and drugs. The plot is described as improbable yet engaging, with well-written and stylish prose that keeps the reader on the edge of their seat.
I must be dead for there is nothing but blue snow and the furious silence of a gunshot. Two birds crash blindly against the glass surface of a lake. I’m cold, religiously cold. The birds burst from th...1998•277 pages Down is a chilling deep-sea thriller that blends mystery, horror, and just a touch of romance for a truly gripping ride - perfect for those who love their sci-fi with sharp teeth and dark surprises.
'Down' by Ally Blue is a science fiction horror novel set in the depths of the ocean floor at the BathyTech 3 mineral mining facility. The story revolves around the discovery of a mysterious spherical rock that triggers strange occurrences among the crew, leading to hallucinations, physical transformations, and a sense of impending doom. As the horror unfolds, the main characters, Mo and Armin, navigate through a claustrophobic and terrifying environment, trying to unravel the mysteries behind the rock and the eerie plague that befalls the facility. The writing style is described as crisp, spare, and fast-paced, keeping readers on edge with unexpected twists and genuine chills.
2014•380 pages- #8
Save:The Comforters by Muriel Spark is a playful and mischievous novel that delves into a carefully crafted web of coincidences led by a quirky cast of characters. The story follows Caroline, a character who starts hearing voices and believes she is a character in a novel. The plot becomes more complex with the introduction of Louisa and her gang involved in gem smuggling, adding layers of mystery and eccentricity. Spark's writing style is described as witty, inventive, and full of eccentric characters, creating a genre-bending tale that blurs the lines between mystery, metafiction, and spiritual crisis.
He followed his grandmother’s movements from the sounds which came clearly through the worn cottage floorboards. At seventy-eight Louisa Jepp did everything very slowly but with extreme attention, as...1954•224 pages - #9
Save:'True Hallucinations' by Terence McKenna is a deep dive into the realms of consciousness and psychedelics as experienced by a group of individuals on an expedition to the Amazon in 1971. The book follows the McKenna brothers and their friends as they search for an oral hallucinogen, encountering psilocybin mushrooms instead. The narrative unfolds in a mix of adventure, spiritual exploration, and scientific inquiry, with vivid descriptions of the events that unfolded during their time in La Chorrera. Terence McKenna's writing style captivates readers with its lucidity and intelligence, drawing them into a world where hallucinogens, shamanism, and cosmic theories intertwine.
1993•272 pages - #10
Save:'The Undead Truth of Us' by Britney S. Lewis is a young adult novel that follows the story of Zharie, a young woman who starts seeing zombies after her mother's death. The book explores themes of grief, self-discovery, and the impact of loss on an individual's life. Through vivid imagery and creative use of colors, Lewis paints a surreal and dreamlike world for Zharie, reminiscent of a Van Gogh painting. The author's writing style is described as raw, relatable, and refreshing, with lyrical prose that captures the emotions and struggles of the protagonist as she navigates through her grief and learns to confront her inner demons.
August 2022•358 pages
