'Requiem for a Dream' by Hubert Selby Jr. is a dark and gritty novel that delves into the lives of four individuals in Brooklyn - Harry, Tyrone, Marion, and Sara - as they navigate through addiction, poverty, and the pursuit of the American Dream. The book portrays the characters' downward spiral into drug addiction and the illusions of a better life, while also critiquing modern society's obsession with materialism and unattainable goals. Selby's writing style, characterized by heavy Brooklyn accents, long sentences, and a unique narrative structure, draws readers in and immerses them in the harsh realities of the characters' lives.

Characters:

Characters are ordinary individuals grappling with addiction, each reflecting the devastating effects of their circumstances.

Writing/Prose:

The writing is characterized by a challenging, gritty style with unconventional punctuation that enhances the emotional weight of the narrative.

Plot/Storyline:

The narrative examines the negative impact of the American Dream as four characters face addiction and despair amidst their ambitions.

Setting:

The setting emphasizes the gritty realities of urban life intertwined with the characters' struggles against addiction.

Pacing:

The pacing varies dramatically, reflecting both the urgency of addiction and the sobering consequences, with a gradual increase in narrative engagement.

HARRY LOCKED HIS MOTHER in the closet. Harold. Please. Not again the TV. Okay, okay, Harry opened the door, then stop playin games with my head. He started walking across the room toward the televisio...

Notes:

The novel was published in 1978 and is considered one of the most controversial books of the 1960s.

It tells the story of four characters struggling with addiction: Harry, Marion, Tyrone, and Sara.

Selby drew heavily from his own life experiences with addiction, making the portrayal of drug dependency authentically raw.

The writing style is unique, as it lacks traditional punctuation and runs dialogue together, reflecting the characters' chaotic minds.

The mother, Sara, becomes addicted to diet pills while trying to lose weight to fit into a dress for a TV appearance, highlighting themes of societal pressure and self-delusion.

Each character's quest for the American Dream leads them into deeper despair and addiction.

The book presents a grim view of urban poverty and the dark side of hopeful aspirations.

Readers often find the characters unlikable but deeply human, revealing complex flaws and struggles.

The story is known for its intense and realistic depiction of drug addiction, serving as both a cautionary tale and a reflection on personal failures.

Sensitive Topics/Content Warnings

Triggers and content warnings for the book include depictions of drug addiction, sexual exploitation, mental illness, and themes of despair and hopelessness.

From The Publisher:

Harry Goldfarb, heroin addict and son of lonely widow Sara, cares only about enjoying the good life with girlfriend Marion and best friend Tyrone C Love, and making the most of all the hash, poppers and dope they can get. Sara Goldfarb sits at home with the TV, dreaming of the life she could have and struggling with her own addictions - food and diet pills. But these four will pay a terrible price for the pleasures they believe they are entitled to. A passionate, heart-breaking tale of the crushing weight of hope and expectation, Requiem for a Dream is a dark modern-day fable of New York.

Ratings (15)

Incredible (2)
Loved It (7)
Liked It (5)
It Was OK (1)

Reader Stats (50):

Read It (15)
Want To Read (23)
Did Not Finish (1)
Not Interested (11)

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About the Author:

Hubert Selby, Jr. was born in Brooklyn in 1928. At the age of 15, he dropped out of school and went to sea with the merchant marines. While at sea he was diagnosed with lung disease. With no other way to make a living, he decided to try writing: 'I knew the alphabet. Maybe I could be a writer.' In 1964 he completed his first book, Last Exit to Brooklyn, which has since become a cult classic. In 1966, it was the subject of an obscenity trial in the UK. His other books include The Room, The Demon, Requiem for a Dream, Song of the Silent Snow, The Willow Tree and Waiting Period. In 2000, Requiem for a Dream starred Jared Leto and Ellen Burstyn and was directed by Darren Aronofsky. Hubert Selby Jr died in Highland Park, Los Angeles, California in April 2004.

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Requiem for a Dream

Hubert Selby Jr.