'The Acid House' by Irvine Welsh is a collection of short stories that delve into the gritty and dark underbelly of Scottish society. Welsh's writing style is described as experimental, using inventive use of the Scottish dialect and unique syntax to draw readers in. The stories are a mix of brutal and funny, with a clear, sharp view of post-Thatcher Scotland portrayed through lyrical prose and rich language.

Characters:

The characters are vividly drawn, often embodying the struggles of lower-class Edinburgh, and are sometimes depicted as bizarre or tragic.

Writing/Prose:

The prose is marked by a distinctive Scottish dialect and a raw, energetic style that blends humor with a brutal examination of reality.

Plot/Storyline:

The narrative consists of a series of distinct short stories and a novella that venture into dark and bizarre territories, showcasing the struggles of flawed characters.

Setting:

The setting predominantly revolves around Edinburgh, set against the backdrop of post-Thatcher society, enriching the narratives with cultural context.

Pacing:

The pacing is inconsistent, with some stories providing rapid, engaging narratives while others may feel more diffuse or wandering.

Marge shrugged sheepishly. Gary had a temper and he’d been really uptight since he got out. He turned to me, pleading for understanding. — You see how it is, Jock? Every fucking time! Treated like I’m...

Notes:

The Acid House by Irvine Welsh is a collection of short stories and a novella.

Welsh's writing is known for its raw honesty and vivid imagery.

The book features strong Scottish dialect which can be challenging for some readers.

Many of the stories explore themes of despair, addiction, and the human condition.

Welsh's style is compared to punk literature, favoring originality over refinement.

The stories are described as shocking, bizarre, and darkly humorous.

Some favorites among readers include "Eurotrash" and "A Smart Cunt."

The book is noted for its energetic narrative and vivid character portrayals.

Welsh's work is seen as a contemporary equivalent to James Joyce's writing, especially in his character studies and dialogue.

The collection's mix of humor and brutality is a hallmark of Welsh's storytelling.

Sensitive Topics/Content Warnings

Content warnings for The Acid House include themes of drug use, graphic violence, sexual situations, mental illness, and potentially distressing scenarios.

From The Publisher:

The characters in this extraordinary book are often - on the surface - depraved, vicious, cowardly and manipulative, but their essential humanity is never undermined. Two professors of philosophy turn pugilists; Leith removal men become the objects of desire for Hollywood goddesses; God turns Boab Coyle into a house-fly; and in the novella, 'A Smart Cunt', the drug-addled young hero spins off on a collision course with his past. The Acid House is a bizarre, disturbing and hilarious collection from one of the most uncompromising and original writers around.

Ratings (4)

Liked It (4)

Reader Stats (6):

Read It (4)
Want To Read (2)

What can you read after
The Acid House?

See the list (41 books)

About the Author:

Irvine Welsh is the author of eleven previous novels and four books of shorter fiction. He currently lives in Chicago. https://www.facebook.com/irvinewelshauthor https://twitter.com/IrvineWelsh

Meet New Books is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a way for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to products and services on amazon.com and its subsidiaries.
When you click the Amazon link and make a purchase, we may receive a small commision, at no cost to you.

Activity

Recommendations

My Stuff

Account

More

The Acid House

Irvine Welsh