Books matching: complexities of human nature
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- #1
Save:'Someone Like You' by Roald Dahl is a collection of dark, bizarre, and sometimes grotesque short stories that showcase a darker side to Dahl's writing. The stories range from tales of unexpected twists and unsettling situations to depictions of people suffering from trauma, all crafted with finesse and a touch of wicked cleverness. The book presents a mix of horror, humor, and twisted narratives that keep the reader engaged and on edge, with each story offering a unique and engrossing experience.
Dahl's writing style in 'Someone Like You' is characterized by his ability to weave tall tales that are both wicked and clever. He expertly crafts stories that are dark, bizarre, and written with finesse, keeping readers on the edge of their seats with unexpected twists and macabre atmospheres. The book explores themes of cruelty, trauma, and psychological violence, showcasing Dahl's mastery in creating stories that blur the lines between horror and delight, leaving readers both horrified and entertained.
Richard Pratt was a famous gourmet. He was president of a small society known as the Epicures, and each month he circulated privately to its members a pamphlet on food and wines. He organized dinners ... - #2
Save:One Day by David Nicholls is a poignant love story that follows the lives of two characters, Dexter Mayhew and Emma Morley, through snapshots on the same day each year over a span of twenty years. The unique narrative structure allows the reader to witness the evolution of their relationship, capturing the highs and lows, the missed opportunities, and the enduring bond between the protagonists. The book explores themes of friendship, love, self-discovery, and the passage of time, offering a bittersweet portrayal of life's complexities.
They lay in silence for a moment, bodies curled around each other in the single bed, then both began to laugh in low, predawn voices. ‘Can’t believe I just said that,’ she groaned. ‘Sounds a bit corny... - #3
Save:'English Passengers' by Matthew Kneale is a novel that intricately weaves together multiple perspectives to tell the story of the British colonization of Tasmania in the 19th century. The book follows a diverse cast of characters, including a Manx smuggler, a country parson, an escaped convict, a mixed-race aborigine, a race supremacy theorist, and a reluctant botanist, as they navigate through the chaotic expedition to Tasmania in search of the original Garden of Eden. Through various voices, the author sheds light on the historical background, the amusing yet heartbreaking tale, and the different viewpoints on colonization, prejudice, and genocide.
The writing style of 'English Passengers' is praised for its humor, wit, and multi-perspective narrative. The book delves into the dark history of Tasmania, tackling themes of racial extinction, religious fervor, and the impact of European colonization on the indigenous population. With a blend of comedy and tragedy, the novel offers a thought-provoking and insightful exploration of the historical events and characters in a way that is both entertaining and informative.
SAY A MAN catches a bullet through his skull in somebody’s war, so where’s the beginning of that? You might say that’s easy. That little moment has its start the day our hero goes marching off to figh... - #4
Save:Set during the late 1930s at the height of the Stalinist purges, 'The Case of Comrade Tulayev' follows the aftermath of the assassination of a high party official, Comrade Tulayev, by an anonymous clerk. The book delves into the series of prosecutions of innocent party members, the elicitation of false confessions, and the far-reaching effects of the purges on ordinary Soviet people. Through a diverse cast of characters, the novel explores the senseless horror and justification of the purges, shedding light on the complexities of the aftermath of the October Revolution.
Victor Serge's writing style in 'The Case of Comrade Tulayev' is described as broad, empathetic, and reminiscent of classical Russian narrative, moving through a selection of characters who serve as metaphors for the unity of the Soviet people. The book is praised for its exploration of the utopian ideals of the October Revolution, the philosophical punch in the concluding pages, and the author's ability to intertwine individual stories within the broader context of Stalin's Russia.
How to explain the obscurity of one of the most compelling of twentieth-century ethical and literary heroes, Victor Serge? How to account for the neglect of The Case of Comrade Tulayev, a wonderful no... - #5
Save:'The Decay of the Angel' by Yukio Mishima is the final volume in the Sea of Fertility tetralogy, exploring themes of reincarnation, cultural decay, and coming to terms with death. The protagonist, Honda, believes he has found another reincarnation of his friend, Mitsugae, leading to a battle of good and evil that twists the plot and leaves existential questions unanswered. Mishima's prose is described as lyrical, mystical, and evocative, painting a picture of beauty and death intertwined in a nihilistic narrative.
The book delves into the complex interactions between characters like Honda and the young boy T ru, focusing on manipulation, malice, and self-destruction. Mishima's writing style is praised for its exquisite prose, captivating imagery of nature and decay, and unexpected plot twists that are heart-wrenching and gut-wrenching. The Decay of the Angel is seen as a worthy culmination of the tetralogy, despite some readers finding it the weakest installment, with a focus on the protagonist's obsession and the consequences of his actions.
THE MISTS in the offing turned the distant ships black. Even so it was clearer than yesterday. He could pick out the ridges of the Izu Peninsula. The May sea was calm. The sunlight was strong, there w... - #6
Save:The Girl in Red by Christina Henry is a unique twist on the classic tale of Little Red Riding Hood set in a post-apocalyptic world. The story follows the main character, Red, who is on a journey to her grandmother's house in the woods while facing challenges such as militants, government forces, and a mutating disease. Red's character is portrayed as strong, smart, and determined, despite having one leg. The plot unfolds with a sense of urgency as Red prepares for the worst while her family remains unprepared for the impending crisis. The narrative skillfully weaves elements of survivalist themes, homage to the original fairy tale, and a sci-fi twist, leaving readers intrigued and engaged throughout the story.
The fellow across the fire gave Red the once-over, from the wild corkscrews of her hair peeking out from under her red hood to the small hand axe that rested on the ground beside her. His eyes darted ... - #7
Save:'All the King's Men' by Robert Penn Warren is a novel set in the 1930s American South that follows the rise and fall of Willie Stark, a character resembling Louisiana Governor Huey Long. The story is narrated by Jack Burden, Stark's right-hand man, and delves into the political machinery and corruption existing during that era. The book intertwines Stark's political career with Burden's life story and philosophical reflections, showcasing the complexities of power, morality, and human nature.
The novel is praised for its richly drawn characters, particularly Willie Stark and Jack Burden, and the exploration of moral dilemmas and ethical choices faced by the protagonists. The writing style is described as lyrical, poetic, and compelling, with rhythmic patterns that add a sensual appeal to the narrative. The plot weaves together themes of power, corruption, redemption, and the search for truth, creating a multi-layered and thought-provoking story.
The last time I saw Mason City I went up there in that big black Cadillac with the Boss and the gang, and we burned up that new concrete slab, and it was a long time ago–nearly three years, for it is ... - #8
Save:'Peaceable Kingdom' by Jack Ketchum is a collection of 32 short stories that delve into dark and twisted themes, ranging from horror to surrealism. The stories explore a wide variety of subjects such as psychosexual sadism, masochism, justice, twins with a melding of minds, and even a dying author's last wish. Ketchum's writing style is described as unflinching, brutal, and grounded in reality, with each story offering a unique and thought-provoking narrative.
It was leaning in the corner behind the twenty-pound fiberglass bow and the quiver of target arrows his father had bought him for Christmas—over her objections. His winter jacket hung in front of it. ... - #9
Save:'In the Garden of the North American Martyrs' by Tobias Wolff is a collection of short stories that delve into the flaws and complexities of ordinary people's lives. The writing is of high quality, with stories that are gently humorous and often have an abrupt ending that leaves readers wanting more. Each story provides a deep character study within the short story format, allowing readers to thoroughly know the characters while the plotlines roll along smoothly.
I go to the window. All their lights are on, upstairs and down, as if they have money to burn. He yells, she screams something back, the dog barks. There is a short silence, then the baby cries, poor ...
(Also, see 43 recommendations for the series Art of the Story ) - #10
Save:Folktales from India by A.K. Ramanujan is a collection of diverse and intriguing folk tales from different regions of India. The stories range from mythical and surreal to everyday life situations, often involving gods, demons, wise men, and brave women. The book explores themes of fate, morality, trickery, and the human nature through a mix of witty, inspiring, and sometimes violent narratives. The writing style captures the essence of Indian culture, traditions, and beliefs, offering readers a glimpse into a world rich in folklore and tradition.
