Books matching: modernist classic
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- #1
Save:"Mrs. Dalloway" by Virginia Woolf follows the events of a single day in the life of the titular character, Clarissa Dalloway, as she prepares for a party. The narrative style shifts between stream of consciousness and third-person omniscience, delving into the thoughts and interactions of various characters connected to Clarissa. The writing is described as detailed, fluid, and capturing the inner workings of each character's mind.
For Lucy had her work cut out for her. The doors would be taken off their hinges; Rumpelmayer’s men were coming. And then, thought Clarissa Dalloway, what a morning — fresh as if issued to children on... - #2
Save:'Nightwood' by Djuna Barnes is a modernist novel set in expat Paris during the 1930s. The story revolves around complex relationships and characters such as Baron Felix, Robin, Nora, Jenny, and the enigmatic doctor. The narrative delves into themes of love, passion, sexuality, and self-degradation, portrayed through dense prose and dramatic monologues. Barnes' writing style is described as exquisitely crafted, combining various prose styles from different eras, creating a dream-like and gothic atmosphere throughout the book.
Early in 1880, in spite of a well-founded suspicion as to the advisability of perpetuating that race which has the sanction of the Lord and the disapproval of the people, Hedvig Volkbein, a Viennese w... - #3
Save:Many readers praise 'A Wizard of Earthsea' for its captivating story of Ged's journey from a reckless youth to a powerful sorcerer, facing his own darkness and embarking on a quest to restore balance in Earthsea. The book is described as a bildungsroman encased in a fantasy world, focusing on Ged's coming of age, his growth as a character, and the themes of power, pride, and redemption. Ursula K. Le Guin's writing style is commended for its richness, world-building, and ability to bring characters and places to life with poetic rhythm and philosophical wisdom.
The Island of Gont, a single mountain that lifts its peak a mile above the storm-racked Northeast Sea, is a land famous for wizards. From the towns in its high valleys and the ports on its dark narrow... - #4
Save:'Hunger' by Knut Hamsun is a gripping and emotionally evocative novel that follows the unnamed protagonist, a starving writer journalist, as he navigates extreme poverty and hunger in the streets of Oslo. The narrative delves into the protagonist's descent into madness, his struggles with pride and self-destruction, and his relentless pursuit of dignity amidst dire circumstances. The writing style is stark, intense, and primal, portraying the protagonist's inner turmoil and erratic behavior with vivid descriptions of near insanity and misery.
Despite the bleak and intense atmosphere, 'Hunger' is lauded for its ability to immerse readers in the protagonist's psyche, leading them through moments of sublime passion, despair, and defiance. The novel offers a compelling exploration of themes such as pride, honor, shame, self-deception, and the complexities of human irrationality. Through a stream of consciousness narrative, the book provides a chilling and uncompromising look at the harsh realities of literary life in Oslo at the turn of the twentieth century, making it a thought-provoking read for those contemplating a life in artistic pursuits.
Lying awake in my attic room, I hear a clock strike six downstairs. It was fairly light already and people were beginning to walk up and down the stairs. Over by the door, where my room was papered wi... - #5
Save:'Between the World and Me' by Ta-Nehisi Coates is a poignant and eye-opening exploration of what it means to be Black in America. Through a series of letters addressed to his teenage son, Coates delves into the experiences, fears, and frustrations of navigating a society plagued by systemic racism and inequality. The book exposes the harsh realities faced by Black individuals, while also offering insights into the legacy of slavery and the ongoing struggles for justice and equality.
Coates's writing style is described as powerful, raw, and emotional, with a stream of consciousness outpouring that provides a deep and thought-provoking look into the Black experience in the United States. The author's ability to blend personal anecdotes with societal critiques creates a compelling narrative that challenges readers to confront their own privilege, biases, and misconceptions about race and identity.
Last Sunday the host of a popular news show asked me what it meant to lose my body. The host was broadcasting from Washington, D.C., and I was seated in a remote studio on the far west side of Manhatt... - #6
Save:'Coraline' by Neil Gaiman is a dark and twisted children's tale about a young girl named Coraline who discovers a parallel world that mirrors her own but is filled with eerie and unsettling differences. As Coraline navigates this strange world, she encounters an Other Mother and Other Father who seem loving and caring, but she soon realizes their true intentions are malevolent. With the help of a talking cat, Coraline must summon her courage and wit to save herself, her real parents, and other lost souls trapped in this nightmarish alternate reality. Neil Gaiman's writing style effectively combines elements of horror, fantasy, and adventure to create a gripping and suspenseful story that keeps readers on edge.
Miss Spink and Miss Forcible lived in the flat below Coraline's, on the ground floor. They were both old and round, and they lived in their flat with a number of ageing Highland terriers who had names... - #7
Save:Nana by Emile Zola is a novel that delves into the world of prostitution and decadence in mid-19th century Paris. The book follows the life of Nana, a young girl who rises to fame and fortune through her beauty and sensuality, attracting and destroying the lives of wealthy men in her circle. Zola's writing style is detailed and vivid, painting a realistic picture of the society and the characters involved. The plot revolves around Nana's destructive sexuality, her manipulation of those around her, and the symbolism used to represent her various facets and influence.
Nana is a complex character that embodies the societal corruption and moral decadence of Paris during the Second Empire. Zola's exploration of Nana's life as a courtesan and actress showcases the excesses and moral corruption of a bored and decadent section of society. The novel portrays the destructive impact Nana has on the men who are drawn to her, leading to bankruptcies, imprisonments, and humiliation. Through Nana's story, Zola shines a light on the societal misogyny, greed, and heartlessness that prevail in the elite circles of Parisian society at the time.
At nine o’clock the Variety Theatre was still almost empty. In the balcony and orchestra stalls a few persons waited, lost amidst the garnet-coloured velvet seats, in the faint light of the half extin...
(Also, see 100 recommendations for the series Les Rougon-Macquart ) - #8
Save:'The Friend' by Sigrid Nunez revolves around a woman who inherits a Great Dane dog after her mentor commits suicide. Through the musings of the narrator, the book delves into themes of grief, loss, friendship, and the art of writing. The narrative style is described as a blend of stream of consciousness, memoir, and meditation, with references to literary allusions, dog-human relationships, and the impact of death on the characters' lives.
During the 1980s, in California, a large number of Cambodian women went to their doctors with the same complaint: they could not see. The women were all war refugees. Before fleeing their homeland, th... - #9
Save:'Animal Farm' by George Orwell is a political allegory that tells the story of farm animals who rebel against their human oppressors to create their own community. The animals aim for equality and a better life, but power dynamics shift as the pigs take control, leading to corruption, deception, and the rise of a new oligarchy. Through a fable-like narrative, Orwell critiques political systems and highlights the dangers of power and totalitarianism. The book serves as a parallel to historical events, particularly the Russian Revolution, and offers a cautionary tale on how political ideals can devolve into tyranny.
The writing style of 'Animal Farm' is straightforward and simple, yet carries a deeper political meaning that resonates with readers of all ages. Orwell cleverly uses animal characters to depict complex political themes, making the book accessible to a wide audience while delivering a powerful message on the nature of power, corruption, and the failures of socialist ideals.
Mr Jones, of the Manor Farm, had locked the hen-houses for the night, but was too drunk to remember to shut the pop-holes. With the ring of light from his lantern dancing from side to side he lurched ... - #10
Save:'The Test' by Sylvain Neuvel is a novella that delves into a dystopian future where immigrants are subjected to a citizenship test that takes a dark and twisted turn. The story follows Idir Jalil as he faces a life-altering test to determine his fate and that of his family, exploring themes of inhuman treatment, immigration, and the impact of government actions on individuals. The writing style is described as concise, intense, and gripping, keeping readers glued to the pages from start to finish.
I know the answer! It’s Saint David, on March first. I met Tidir, my wife, on March first. It is our meeting anniversary. I remember that day. She came in for a root canal and I fell in love. Not with...
