Books matching: authenticity and memory
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- #1
'Remainder' by Tom McCarthy is a novel that delves into the mind of a protagonist who receives a large settlement after an accident, leading him to obsessively stage re enactments of past memories and interactions. The book explores themes of identity, authenticity, and the blurred lines between reality and performance. The writing style is described as sharp, precise, and compelling, with a plot that unfolds in a logical yet unsettling manner, drawing the reader into the protagonist's increasingly elaborate re enactments.
It’s not that I’m being shy. It’s just that—well, for one, I don’t even remember the event. It’s a blank: a white slate, a black hole. I have vague images, half-impressions: of being, or having been—o... - #2
'Idol' by Louise O'Neill delves into the world of social media influencers, exploring the themes of online celebrity, authenticity, memory, and trust. The story follows Samantha Miller, a successful lifestyle guru with a massive online following, whose life is turned upside down when she is accused of sexual assault by her childhood best friend. As the narrative unfolds, the reader is taken on a journey through Samantha's past struggles with addiction, her carefully curated online persona, and the blurred lines between truth and perception. The novel skillfully navigates complex contemporary issues such as consent, abortion, and feminism, while keeping the reader hooked with its fast-paced and addictive storytelling.
- #3
'My 21 Years in the White House' by Alonzo Fields is a memoir that provides a unique insider perspective on the lives of American presidents and their families during the early to mid-20th century. Fields, as the Head Butler, shares anecdotes and details about the daily routines, events, and interactions that took place within the White House, offering readers a glimpse into the historical and personal moments he witnessed. The book is written in a straightforward manner, focusing on the experiences of a servant trusted with the responsibility of ensuring top-notch food preparation and service for the White House inhabitants and guests.
Fields' account not only sheds light on the behind-the-scenes workings of the White House but also delves into his personal journey and reflections on his unexpected career path. Through his recollections of notable events and encounters with prominent figures such as Presidents Roosevelt and Truman, Fields provides a nuanced portrayal of the challenges and rewards of his position, offering a blend of historical insights and personal growth narrative.
- #4
'The Memory Librarian: And Other Stories of Dirty Computer' is a collection of five individual stories, each written by Janelle Monáe in collaboration with another author. These stories are based on Monáe's album 'Dirty Computer' from 2018 and explore a dystopian future where memories are controlled. The stories are set in the same world but do not share characters, yet they inform each other, crafting a creative and haunting vision of the future. Themes of hope, authenticity, acceptance, and staying true to oneself resonate throughout the narratives, challenging readers to maintain optimism and individuality in the face of societal pressures.
The lights of Little Delta are spread before Seshet like an offering in a shallow bowl. What memories are those shadows below making tonight, to ripen for the morning harvest? What tragedies, what ind... - #5
'Cool for You' by Eileen Myles is a memoir that captivates readers with its raw and honest portrayal of the author's life. The book delves into Myles' memories, jumping back and forth in time like snapshots, providing a fresh and effective style of storytelling. The writing style is described as flat-footed, precarious, lyrical, and epigrammatic, stemming from Myles' decades of experience in verse-making. The book offers a tough and honest view into Myles' life, sharing memories of sexual experiences, horrible jobs, and family life without artifice or regard for chronology.
Myles' memoir also explores themes of displacement, class struggles, and identity, painting vivid scenes of her Catholic school experiences and working in challenging environments. The author refuses to codify her various descriptors - Irish Catholic, working class, lesbian, alcoholic - into identities, yet illuminates them beautifully in her narrative. Through Myles' storytelling and philosophizing, readers are taken on a journey that is both heartbreaking and insightful, providing a unique perspective on the complexities of life and memory.
I’ve made up a myth in my life that any time you push yourself through something uncomfortable, say a snowstorm and you don’t have boots on, then you will get the job, because you have been so doggedl... - #6
Perla by Carolina De Robertis is a poignant tale set during Argentina's Dirty War from 1976 to 1983, focusing on Perla, an Argentinian psychology student who encounters a ghost of one of the disappeared from the era. The book skillfully weaves magical realism into the narrative, exploring themes of memory, trauma, and the hidden bond between Perla and the ghost stranger, with a non-linear structure that keeps readers engaged and intrigued.
Some things are impossible for the mind to hold alone. So listen, if you can, with your whole being. The story pushes and demands to be told, here, now, with you so close and the past even closer, bre... - #7
'Sculpting in Time' by Andrei Tarkovsky is a book where the author shares his ideas on filmmaking, focusing on the rules and methods he set for himself in creating his movies. Tarkovsky delves into the nature and purpose of art, particularly in cinema, emphasizing the importance of observation and the experience of the world. The book explores Tarkovsky's views on the inner life, psychological truths of characters, and spirituality in art, drawing parallels with other art forms like architecture and discussing the significance of simplicity and patience in artistic expression.
The book also delves into Tarkovsky's critical opinions on various aspects of filmmaking, including his thoughts on time as the primary medium of film, the differences between cinema and other arts, and the challenges of connecting with an audience without compromising artistic integrity. Tarkovsky's deep reflections on memory, symbolism, and the purpose of true art provide readers with profound insights into his creative philosophy and the essence of cinematic expression.
In "Nobody Will Tell You This But Me," Bess Kalb beautifully captures the heartfelt and humorous conversations she had with her late grandmother, Bobby. Through emails, voicemails, and memories, the book delves into the close relationship between Bess and Bobby, showcasing the strong bond between four generations of women in their family. Bobby's candid and opinionated nature shines through in her guidance and love for Bess, creating a touching narrative that explores themes of family, love, and legacy.
It’s a terrible thing to be dead. Oh, how boring. How maddening. Nothing to do. Nothing to read. No one to talk to. And everyone’s a mess. Thank God for that, at least. The rabbi at the service didn’t...- #9
'The Liars' Club' by Mary Karr is a powerful memoir that delves into the author's tumultuous childhood in Texas and Colorado. Through vivid imagery and compelling storytelling, Karr narrates the horrors and resilience of her upbringing, painting a raw and unflinching portrait of her dysfunctional family dynamics. The writing style captures the reader's attention by evoking all five senses, immersing them in the heat of East Texas, the stench of stale bars, and the emotional turmoil of a young child facing abuse and trauma.
Karr's memoir is a gripping tale that balances between howling misery and howling laughter, showcasing the author's ability to recount her childhood with humor, insight, and self-deprecation. The narrative follows Karr's journey as she navigates the chaos of her family life, revealing moments of bravery, strength, and love amidst the darkness. offers a poignant reflection on survival, familial bonds, and the impact of a challenging upbringing on one's identity and resilience.
My sharpest memory is of a single instant surrounded by dark. I was seven, and our family doctor knelt before me where I sat on a mattress on the bare floor. He wore a yellow golf shirt unbuttoned so ... - #10
Paperweight by Meg Haston is a dark and honest story that follows Stevie, a 17-year-old struggling with an eating disorder and suicidal thoughts. The book delves into Stevie's journey as she is checked into a treatment center by her father, with the looming anniversary of her brother's death adding urgency to her self-destructive plans. Through alternating narratives of her present-day struggles and past memories, the author provides a realistic portrayal of anorexia, bulimia, and self-hating depression. The writing style is described as authentic, with secrets being shared and a mystery element that builds suspense throughout the narrative.
The book is praised for its raw depiction of recovery, portraying it as a long and brutal road filled with ups and downs. It stands out for its honesty in showing that recovery from mental illness is not a linear process and cannot be magically fixed overnight. The character development, particularly in depicting Stevie's journey towards healing, forgiveness, and self-worth, resonates with readers who appreciate the depth and authenticity of the story.
Josh—sorry! Joshua—would say I’m being a drama queen. I imagine him saying things like that sometimes. It’s not like I can actually hear his words out loud, or he comes to me in my dreams, or some bul...