Books matching: literary influence
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- #1
Save:The Books in My Life by Henry Miller is a unique book where the author provides readers with his evolution as a reader, discussing the great writers that influenced him and the people who impacted his literary development. Miller reveals his reading habits, his literary heroes, and his candid opinions on various authors and literary works. The book serves as a guiding hand for readers, offering a reference to discover new writers and explore different genres. Miller's enthusiastic and frank approach to recounting his literary journey makes this book a valuable resource for literary self-education.
Henry Miller's The Books in My Life is not just a memoir of his reading experiences, but also a celebration of his craft as a writer. Through anecdotes, reflections, and recommendations, Miller shares the profound impact that books have had on his life, shaping his outlook on literature and the world. The book is filled with insights into Miller's literary influences, his exploration of various genres, and his humorous and honest observations on classic and contemporary authors.
- #2
Save:Set in Belfast during the 1970s and early 1980s, "Resurrection Man" by Eoin McNamee follows the life of Vincent Kelly, a leader of killers, as he morphs into a serial killer due to his childhood marred by sectarian bigotry. The book portrays the impact of Kelly's actions on those around him, including his mother's denial, his lover's depression, and the fear he instills in the community. The writing style is described as darkly lyrical, somber, and riveting, painting vivid images of despair, decline, and loneliness in a population torn by sectarian violence.
Afterwards Dorcas would admit without shame that having moved house so often was a disturbance to Victor’s childhood. But a suspicion would arise in each place that they were Catholics masquerading as... - #3
Save:'Dangerous Laughter' by Steven Millhauser is a collection of 18 short stories that delve into the intricacies of life's nooks and crannies. The stories range from recounting historical events like humanity enclosing itself under a dome to exploring the psychological states of characters experiencing strange phenomena. Millhauser's writing style focuses on fine details and imaginative histories, often creating worlds just left of reality, with haunting qualities that leave readers pondering their own perceptions of the world.
THE CAT IS CHASING the mouse through the kitchen: between the blue chair legs, over the tabletop with its red-and-white-checkered tablecloth that is already sliding in great waves, past the sugar bowl... - #4
Save:Enrique Vila Matas' 'Never Any End to Paris' is a novel that delves into the life of a young writer living in Paris, drawing parallels to the iconic Ernest Hemingway. The narrative unfolds during a Hemingway conference, with flashbacks to Paris, exploring the protagonist's struggles with identity, literary ambitions, and personal connections within the bohemian demimonde. Through witty narration and a mix of homage and irony, Vila Matas paints a vivid picture of the Parisian literary scene in the 1970s, capturing the essence of youthful aspirations and creative dilemmas.
I went to Key West in Florida this year to enter the annual Ernest Hemingway look-alike contest. The competition took place at Sloppy Joe’s, the writer’s favorite bar when he lived in Cayo Hueso, at t... - #5
Save:'Inkdeath' is the final installment in the 'Inkworld' trilogy by Cornelia Funke. The book delves into a dark and intense narrative where characters from the real world interact with those from a fictional adventure story. The plot is filled with action, complex relationships, and magical elements. The writing style is described as immersive, with detailed world-building and well-rounded characters that evolve throughout the story.
Hark, the footsteps of the night Fade in silence long. Quiet chirps my reading light Like a cricket’s song. Books inviting us to read On the bookshelves stand. Piers for bridges that will lead Into fa...
(Also, see 100 recommendations for the series Inkworld ) An uncompromising, poetic, and nightmarishly violent vision of the American West; admired as a literary masterpiece, but definitely not for the faint of heart.
See the child. He is pale and thin, he wears a thin and ragged linen shirt. He stokes the scullery fire. Outside lie dark turned fields with rags of snow and darker woods beyond that harbor yet a few...- #7
Save:'A Smuggler's Bible' by Joseph McElroy is a complex and intricate novel that follows the protagonist, David Brooke, as he attempts to piece together his identity through various manuscripts written by different perspectives. The story unfolds in a variety of styles influenced by Nabokov and Joyce, revealing the challenges of self-scrutiny and introspection. The narrative delves into questions of identity, solipsism, and the relationships between individuals, all while exploring themes of existentialism and religious faith.
The novel comprises interconnected novellas and short stories that serve as a frame for investigating the nature of identity and subjectivity. Through a series of narratives told from the perspectives of David Brooke's friends, family, and even himself, the book delves into the complexities of human relationships and the struggle to understand one's place in the world. With mythic parallels, existential musings, and intricate storytelling, 'A Smuggler's Bible' challenges the reader to contemplate the nature of self and the connections between individuals.
He doesn’t know what I am, but he knows I’m in him and behind him. His name is David Brooke, and he and his meddling English wife are aboard the Arkadia bound east. For Form’s sake I’ll grant that he... - #8
Save:Night Birds on Nantucket follows the adventures of Dido Twite, who awakens on a Nantucket whaler after being rescued from a shipwreck in the arctic. Tasked with helping Captain Casket's daughter, Dutiful Penitence, face her fears, Dido must navigate a mystery and adventure story with a touch of humor. The book is praised for its quirky characters, whimsical plot twists, and nods to literary classics like Moby Dick.
The writing style of Night Birds on Nantucket is described as fun, adventurous, and filled with humor. Readers enjoy the feisty and pure-hearted protagonist, Dido Twite, as she fearlessly takes on challenges and uncovers a murderous scheme to assassinate the king of England. The book is commended for its ability to engage both young and adult readers with its rich storytelling and unique blend of whimsy and suspense.
Late in the middle watch of a calm winter's night, many years ago, a square-rigged, three-masted ship, the Sarah Casket, was making her way slowly through northern seas under a blaze of stars. A bitte...
(Also, see 100 recommendations for the series The Wolves Chronicles ) - #9
Save:A gorgeously written, contemplative journey that celebrates the magic of walking and the rich histories under our feet - best for those ready to slow down and savor both language and landscape.
All things are engaged in writing their history…Not a foot steps into the snow, or along the ground, but prints in characters more or less lasting, a map of its march. The ground is all memoranda and... - #10
Save:Salman Rushdie's 'Languages of Truth: Essays 2003-2020' is a collection of 38 essays that cover a wide range of subjects, with a focus on arts including literature, films, stage, painting, and photography. Rushdie provides insights on society around the world, with special emphasis on his native India. The essays delve into historical anecdotes, literature, art of storytelling, language, politics, freedom of expression, and imagination. The book showcases Rushdie's erudite word skills and his ability to blend imagination and reality with sharp observations and liberal perspectives.
The essays in this collection offer a journey through the world of literature, art, and storytelling, bringing alive the magical power of the creative mind. Rushdie's distinctive voice shines through as he discusses the pertinence of classics, shares personal engagements with deceased friends, and provides insightful analyses of various subjects. The book provides a glimpse into the mind of the author, his motivations, influences, and intentions in his work, making connections between narratives that have shaped his writing style and beliefs.
