Books matching: absurd universe
30 result(s)
Readers also searched for:
- #1
'The Sirens of Titan' by Kurt Vonnegut Jr. is a science fiction novel that follows the journey of Malachi Constant, the richest man in America, as he travels from Earth to Mars, Mercury, and finally to Titan. Along the way, he encounters bizarre events, such as a Martian invasion of Earth, time travel, and interactions with alien races like the Tralfamadorians. Vonnegut weaves a tale that explores themes of religion, free will, and the meaning of life, all with his signature satirical and cynical writing style that mixes humor with profound contemplation.
The novel is known for its quirky and insightful take on human culture, offering surprising events and unique atmospheres in each section of the book. Despite the basic plot structure being revealed early on, Vonnegut manages to keep the story engaging with a mix of chaos and contemplation, leading readers through a thought-provoking journey that delves into the absurdity of life and the universe.
Gimcrack religions were big business. Mankind, ignorant of the truths that lie within every human being, looked outward - pushed ever outward. What mankind hoped to learn in its outward push was who w... - #2
'Glory Lane' by Alan Dean Foster is a comedic science fiction novel that follows the adventures of a punk, his nerd brother, and a beautiful girl who end up in a flying saucer and journey through the universe. Along the way, they encounter various evolved super species, like Neanderthals, Prufillians, Oomemiams, Sikans, Halets, and Izmir, adding a cosmic silliness to the narrative. The story involves rescuing Akwait, a Prufilluan, and delving into the mystery of the missing 12 of all matter to uncover the secrets of the universe. The writing style is described as absurd, silly, and over the top, akin to slapstick comedy in prose form, but with an interesting take on things that makes it a great and enjoyable read.
It was always slow in Albuquerque on Tuesday nights, but tonight was worse than usual. Man, it was dead, Seeth Ransom fumed. He couldn’t even find a stray cat to kick around. So he was forced to fall ... - #3
Porterhouse Blue is a satirical novel set in a fictional Cambridge college, Porterhouse, which serves as a microcosm of life and attitudes in prestigious universities. The story revolves around the new Master, Sir Godber Evans, who challenges the established order of the college, sparking hilarious and catastrophic consequences. The book humorously highlights the arrogance, pomposity, and lack of connection with the real world that can exist in elitist academic institutions, while also delving into themes of tradition versus modernity and the resistance to change.
The plot of Porterhouse Blue is filled with farcical events, absurd situations, and exaggerated characters, all woven together in a witty and clever writing style that delivers a powerful message in a humorous fashion. The novel is set in the 1970s and portrays the clash between tradition and progress at a Cambridge University college, showcasing Sharpe's ability to create a satire that is both entertaining and thought-provoking.
It was a fine Feast. No one, not even the Praelector who was so old he could remember the Feast of ’09, could recall its equal – and Porterhouse is famous for its food. There was Caviar and Soupe a l’... - #4
'The Big U' by Neal Stephenson is a satirical novel set in a university environment, exploring themes of higher education, campus life, and societal breakdown. The book follows the descent of a university into chaos, with warring factions, bizarre cults, and escalating violence. The writing style is described as humorous, surreal, and at times over-the-top, with elements of satire and social commentary.
The Go Big Red Fan was John Wesley Fenrick’s, and when ventilating his System it throbbed and crept along the floor with a rhythmic chunka-chunka-chunk. Fenrick was a Business major and a senior. From... - #5
'The Unbearable Lightness of Being' by Milan Kundera is a philosophical novel that delves deep into themes of love, sex, human condition, and relationships. It follows the intertwined lives of four main characters - a doctor, a painter, a waitress, and a professor - set against the backdrop of communism and democracy. The novel is known for its unique narrative style that blends philosophical musings with the characters' stories, creating a complex and thought-provoking read.
Kundera's writing style in 'The Unbearable Lightness of Being' is characterized by its blend of dreamlike imagery and brutal reality, creating a poetic and touching work that explores the weight of existence. The story unfolds through interconnected relationships, where the characters navigate between societal demands, political turmoil, and personal desires, leading to profound reflections on fidelity, betrayal, and the complexities of human nature.
15 While she marched around the pool naked with a large group of other naked women, Tomas stood over them in a basket hanging from the pool's arched roof, shouting at them, making them sing and do kne... - #6
The Sun Also Rises by Ernest Hemingway is a novel that follows a group of expatriates living in Paris and traveling to Spain. The story revolves around themes of love, friendship, post-war trauma, and the search for meaning in a seemingly aimless existence. The writing style is characterized by simple yet powerful phrasing, sparse dialogue, and an understated tone that conveys the characters' emotions and struggles.
The novel explores the complex relationships between the characters, particularly focusing on the central figure of Lady Brett Ashley and her entanglements with various men in the group. Set against the backdrop of the post-World War I era, the book delves into themes of impotence, unrequited love, and the disillusionment of the Lost Generation. Hemingway's portrayal of bullfighting, drinking culture, and the expatriate lifestyle adds depth to the narrative, highlighting the characters' internal conflicts and external experiences.
Robert Cohn was once middleweight boxing champion of Princeton. Do not think that I am very much impressed by that as a boxing title, but it meant a lot to Cohn. He cared nothing for boxing, in fact h... - #7
The Adventures of Tom Sawyer by Mark Twain is a classic tale following the mischievous adventures of a young boy named Tom. The book captures the essence of boyhood, filled with humorous situations, pranks, and escapades that Tom and his friends find themselves in. Set in the American West of the 1840s, the novel weaves together comic vignettes based on Tom's exploits, linked by a darker storyline involving his life-threatening encounter with the murderer Injun Joe. Mark Twain's writing style beautifully portrays the rolling Southern beauty and the stereotypical stories that the readers can enjoy.
1850 Sam’s brother Orion, ten years his senior, returns to Hannibal and establishes the Journal; he hires Sam as a compositor. Steamboats become the primary means of transport on the Mississippi River... - #8
Imajica by Clive Barker is a sprawling fantasy epic that takes readers on a journey through the Five Dominions, with Earth being the Unreconciled Fifth. The story revolves around the attempt to reconcile Earth with the other Dominions, filled with bizarre and compelling worlds, dark elements, and intricate mysteries. Clive Barker's writing style is praised for its vivid imagery, imaginative world-building, and complex characters, creating a rich and immersive reading experience that blends fantasy, mythology, and epic storytelling.
It was the pivotal teaching of Pluthero Quexos, the most celebrated dramatist of the Second Dominion, that in any fiction, no matter how ambitious its scope or profound its theme, there was only ever ... - #9
The Alchemist by Paulo Coelho is a fable that follows the journey of a young shepherd named Santiago as he embarks on a quest to discover his Personal Legend. The book is written in a simplistic and allegorical style, focusing on themes of fate, following one's dreams, and the interconnectedness of the universe. Through encounters with various characters and experiences, Santiago learns valuable life lessons and gains insight into the meaning of his existence.
The narrative of The Alchemist is infused with philosophical musings and spiritual undertones, aiming to inspire readers to reflect on their own paths and aspirations. The story unfolds like a parable, guiding the reader through Santiago's adventures in search of treasure, which ultimately leads him to a deeper understanding of himself and the world around him.
I REMEMBER RECEIVING A LETTER FROM THE AMERICAN publisher Harper Collins that said that: “reading The Alchemist was like getting up at dawn and seeing the sun rise while the rest of the world still sl... - #10
'Great Expectations' by Charles Dickens is a classic tale following the journey of Pip, a young orphan who rises in society and encounters a web of complex relationships and unexpected connections. The story delves into themes of true love, friendship, deception, and the impact of relationships on shaping characters. Dickens weaves a narrative filled with twists, suspense, and moral lessons, as Pip navigates the worlds of the upper class and learns valuable life lessons along the way.
MY FATHER’S FAMILY NAME being Pirrip, and my christian name Philip, my infant tongue could make of both names nothing longer or more explicit than Pip. So I called myself Pip, and came to be called Pi...