Books matching: social critique in literature
10 result(s)
- #1
Save:Set in 1870s London, "The Crimson Petal and the White" follows the lives of various characters navigating the stark realities of both poverty and wealth during the Victorian era. The story revolves around Sugar, a prostitute striving to improve her circumstances, and William, a complex character whose actions disappoint and intrigue readers. Michel Faber's writing style immerses readers in the sights and sounds of London, offering a detailed portrayal of the time period.
Watch your step. Keep your wits about you; you will need them. This city I am bringing you to is vast and intricate, and you have not been here before. You may imagine, from other stories you’ve read,... - #2
Save:'They Divided the Sky: A Novel' by Christa Wolf is set in East Germany in the early 1960s, focusing on a young couple, Rita and Manfred. The story explores their relationship amidst the political and social turmoil of the time, with Manfred deciding to flee to West Berlin while Rita chooses to stay in East Germany. The novel delves into themes of love, loyalty, political ideologies, and the challenges faced by individuals living in a divided society. Christa Wolf's writing style includes alternating between past and present tense, using flashbacks to narrate Rita's backstory and her present struggles.
- #3
Save:'The Blackboard Jungle' by Ed McBain (Evan Hunter) is a novel set in an urban vocational high school in the 1950s, depicting the challenges faced by a young teacher in a school filled with disaffected and violent boys. The book delves into the dark side of American education, showcasing the struggles of teachers dealing with students who have been failed by the system. Through well-rounded characters and a gripping plot, the novel provides an insightful look at the societal issues prevalent in the educational system of that era.
- #4
Save:'People Like Us' by Dominick Dunne is a novel that delves into the world of New York's old money society and the newcomers who aspire to be a part of it. The book intricately weaves a story of jealousy, murder, the influence of money and power, and the dynamics within high society. Through a large cast of characters, the author provides an insider's view of the lives of the rich and famous, offering a peek into the conflicts and intrigues that shape their world. The writing style is described as witty, honest, and engaging, with a touch of English flair that adds depth to the narrative.
- #5
Save:The Enormous Room by E.E. Cummings is an autobiographical novel recounting the author's time spent in a French prison during World War I. Cummings, along with a friend, was detained for several months due to suspicions of treason. The book vividly describes the characters Cummings encounters during his imprisonment, the conditions of the prison, and the daily struggles faced by the detainees. The prose is dense and interspersed with French dialogue, creating a challenging yet rewarding reading experience for those who appreciate Cummings' unique writing style.
In the preceding pages I have described my Pilgrim's Progress from the Slough of Despond, commonly known as Section Sanitaire Vingt-et-Un (then located at Germaine) through the mysteries of Noyon, Gré... 'Change the Story, Change the Future: A Living Economy for a Living Earth' by David C. Korten delves into the urgent need for a paradigm shift towards a more sustainable and interconnected way of living on Earth. Korten tackles various pressing issues threatening life on the planet, offering a multi-faceted presentation that challenges traditional narratives and values. Through his writing, he calls for a transformation in how we perceive success, measure values, and prioritize our actions, emphasizing the importance of shifting from a focus on Sacred Money and Markets to Sacred Life and Living Earth.
- #7
Save:The novel 'Pineapple Street' by Jenny Jackson revolves around the wealthy Stockton family living on Pineapple Street in Brooklyn. The story follows the dynamics and challenges faced by the family members, particularly focusing on Sasha, an outsider married into the family, and Georgiana, who struggles with the concept of inherited wealth and philanthropy. The book delves into themes of class differences, family relationships, societal ignorance, and the disparity of wealth in American society. Through humor and drama, the author explores the complexities of the Stockton family and their interactions with each other and the world around them.
- #8
Save:Gothic Tales by Elizabeth Gaskell is a collection of short stories and novellas that delve into Gothic themes such as disappearances, curses, witches, and ancestral sins haunting younger generations. The stories are a blend of supernatural elements like ghosts and doppelgangers, along with explorations of the twisted side of human nature, set in eerie and chilling atmospheres. Gaskell's writing style is described as suspenseful, historical, and containing a great deal of detail presented in a lively manner.
The book offers a mix of horror and social commentary, exploring themes of witchcraft, hauntings, and societal evils with an atmospheric and enthralling tone. Readers appreciate the well-developed and effectively spooky tales that are a refreshing departure from modern horror stories, providing a glimpse into Victorian supernatural fiction through Gaskell's masterful storytelling.
I am not in the habit of seeing the Household Words regularly; but a friend, who lately sent me some of the back numbers, recommended me to read ‘all the papers relating to the Detective and Protectiv... - #9
Save:"Juliette" by Marquis de Sade is a controversial and darkly philosophical novel that delves into themes of sadism, torture, sexuality, and human hypocrisy. The book follows the life of Juliette, sister of Justine, as she navigates through a world filled with depravity, violence, and extreme sexual acts. The writing style is described as dense, philosophical, and penetrating, with the author challenging authority and societal norms, particularly targeting the Catholic Church. Despite the disturbing content, readers acknowledge the genius of de Sade's expression and his ability to provoke thought and discussion.
’T was at Panthemont we were brought up, Justine and I, there that we received our education. The name of that celebrated retreat is not unfamiliar to you; nor does it require telling that for many a ... - #10
Save:A Modern Utopia by H.G. Wells is a unique novel that presents a vision of a perfect society through a combination of social commentary and narrative storytelling. The book explores the concept of a modern utopia where the society is structured in a way that aims to improve the human species through regulated reproduction and a meritocracy of voluntary noblemen. Wells' writing style blends elements of fiction and essay, offering a thought-provoking perspective on the ideal world enlightened by science and led by an altruistic intellectual elite.
The Utopia of a modern dreamer must needs differ in one fundamental aspect from the Nowheres and Utopias men planned before Darwin quickened the thought of the world. Those were all perfect and static...
