Books matching: madness and identity
53 result(s)
- #1
Save:The Aunt's Story by Patrick White is a psychologically complex novel that delves into the life of Theodora Goodman, a tragically unfulfilled woman in early 20th century Australia. The book is divided into three parts, each offering a unique perspective on Theodora's life journey. From her upbringing in a household overshadowed by Victorian remnants to her travels across Europe and eventually the United States, Theodora's experiences shape her into a character struggling with self-worth, emotional repression, and a distorted view of reality. White's prose is described as angular, tortured, and surrealistic, offering readers a captivating but disorienting glimpse into Theodora's inner world.
White's narrative style focuses on character development and consciousness, rather than plot-driven action, making the book a deep exploration of Theodora's psyche and her interactions with the world around her. The novel's originality, wit, and candor shine through in its portrayal of Theodora's journey from a sheltered childhood to a hauntingly lonely existence, showcasing White's risk-taking in pushing prose fiction into a realm of deeper psychological richness.
Theodora went into the room where the coffin lay. She moved one hairbrush three inches to the left, and smoothed the antimacassar on a little Empire prie-dieu that her mother had brought from Europe. ... - #2
Save:Gustav Meyrink's 'The Golem' is a haunting Gothic tale set in Prague's Medieval Jewish Ghetto, revolving around the protagonist Athanasius Pernath, an amnesiac gem cutter, and his quest for identity. The story is filled with mysterious characters, including a red-headed prostitute, a junk dealer, and a deaf-mute silhouette artist, all connected to the enigmatic figure of the Golem, a creature of rabbinical myth that comes to life every 33 years. The novel blurs the boundaries between dreams and reality, madness and sanity, while exploring themes of stolen identity, persecution, and self-discovery in a strange underworld peopled by fantastical beings.
The initial was not stuck onto the page, as I had previously seen in old books; rather, it seemed to consist of two thin pieces of gold leaf welded together in the middle and with their ends wrapped r... - #3
Save:'Wide Sargasso Sea' by Jean Rhys is a haunting and dreamlike novel that serves as a prequel to 'Jane Eyre'. It delves into the life of Antoinette Cosway, the first Mrs. Rochester, exploring her descent into madness within the lush landscapes of the West Indies. The book provides a compelling backstory to the character of Bertha, portraying the complexities of class and racial tensions in a post-colonial and post-slavery society, all while challenging the reader's sympathies between Antoinette and Rochester.
They say when trouble come close ranks, and so the white people did. But we were not in their ranks. The Jamaican ladies had never approved of my mother, ‘because she pretty like pretty self’ Christop... - #4
Save:'We Can Build You' by Philip K. Dick explores the concept of creating simulacra, particularly of historical figures like Abe Lincoln. The novel delves into themes of love, madness, and the nature of consciousness, all set against a backdrop of a society where mental illness is prevalent, androids are indistinguishable from humans, and paranoia is a norm. The writing style of the book is characterized by realistic dialogue, superb characterization, and a mix of humor and sadness that is typical of Philip K. Dick's work.
Spinet piano, also electronic organ, repossessed, in perfect condition, SACRIFICE. Cash or good credit risk wanted in this area, to take over payments rather than transport back to Oregon. Contact Fra... - #5
Save:"The Tenant" by Roland Topor is a psychological horror novel that delves into themes of paranoia, identity loss, and descent into madness. The story follows Monsieur Trelkovsky, a man who takes over the apartment of a woman who committed suicide, only to find himself entangled in a web of persecution, paranoia, and self-destruction. The narrative is described as powerful, nightmarish, and filled with dark humor, as the protagonist's internal imagery teeters between the banal and the grotesque, leading to a captivating yet disturbing portrayal of psychological terror.
The book is praised for its captivating storytelling and the gradual spiral into madness that Topor creates, blurring the lines between reality and surrealism. The writing style is noted for being convincingly told, with a sly dark humor peeking out from the corners, making it a unique and intense read that explores the complexities of human psyche and the terrifying consequences of losing touch with reality.
Trelkovsky was on the point of being thrown out in the street when his friend Simon told him about an apartment on the rue des Pyrénées. He went to look at it. The concierge, an ill-tempered woman, re... - #6
Save:'Withered + Sere' by T.J. Klune is a dark and compelling post-apocalyptic story that delves into the viewpoint of an insane person. The writing style is described as perfect for setting the mood, with very compelling characters and a storyline that is both violent and passionate. The book is a departure from the author's usual romantic themes, offering a starkly beautiful and thought-provoking narrative that explores themes of madness and destiny.
The plot revolves around Cavalo, the central character, who navigates a desolate post-apocalyptic America alongside intriguing companions like Bad Dog and SIRS. The story is filled with dark undertones and heavy themes, yet still retains elements of humor that lighten the narrative at times. Overall, 'Withered + Sere' is a departure from the author's previous works, offering a gripping and intense read that showcases TJ Klune's diverse talent in storytelling.
- #7
Save:The Once Yellow House by Gemma Amor is a disturbing and gripping novel that delves into themes of abuse, cults, cosmic horror, and the fine line between madness and reality. The story is told through a mix of diary entries, audio transcripts, letters to the editor, and footnotes, creating a unique and immersive reading experience. The book follows the story of a cult led by Thomas, known as The Great God Thomas, and the aftermath of a massacre that leaves Kate and Hope as survivors searching for answers.
- #8
Save:'Jack of Spades' by Joyce Carol Oates is a psychological mystery novel that delves into the blurred lines between reality and fiction. The protagonist, Andrew J. Rush, is a successful mystery author who leads a double life writing darker, more violent novels under the pseudonym Jack of Spades. When he is sued for alleged plagiarism by a woman named C.W. Haider, Rush's identities begin to merge, leading to a descent into madness. The narrative explores themes of obsession, identity, and the consequences of blurring the boundaries between creativity and reality. Oates weaves a complex tale that keeps readers questioning the true nature of the characters and the events unfolding.
- #9
Save:"His Hideous Heart" by Dahlia Adler is a collection of 13 Edgar Allan Poe stories retold by YA authors. The book features a mix of original Poe stories and modern retellings that explore themes of death, madness, obsession, revenge, and tragedy. Each story captures the essence of the original while adding a fresh spin, making them more relatable and engaging for contemporary readers. The writing styles vary among the authors, from capturing Poe's Gothic tone to infusing modern elements like social media and high school settings.
The night the stables burned, the air turned cold and still as in the dead of winter. They had caught not long past 10:00 p.m., but ours was a quiet estate, none of the staff known to keep late hours,... "The Madness of Crowds: Gender, Race and Identity" by Douglas Murray is a critical examination of the mob-like behavior and outrage culture surrounding issues of gender, race, and identity in the modern Western world. Murray's writing style is described as insightful, precise, and level-headed, providing a detailed analysis of the descent into irrationality and extremism in topics such as identity politics, intersectionality, and social media influence. delves into the challenges of free speech, the impact of social justice advocacy, and the need to question societal norms and political correctness.
It is a chill February day in London in 2018 and a small demonstration is taking place outside a cinema just off Piccadilly Circus. Wrapped-up warm, the quiet protestors are holding up posters that sa...
