Books matching: dark side of human nature
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'The Lucifer Effect: Understanding How Good People Turn Evil' by Philip G. Zimbardo explores the dark side of human nature through the lens of psychological experiments like the Stanford Prison Experiment. It delves into how seemingly ordinary individuals can be influenced by group dynamics and situational factors to commit acts of evil and cruelty. The writing style is described as eye-opening and thought-provoking, offering insights into the capacity for evil that exists within everyone under certain circumstances.
Does your mind’s eye see the many white angels dancing about the dark heavens? Or do you see the many black demons, horned devils inhabiting the bright white space of Hell? In this illusion by the art...- #2
'American Psycho' by Bret Easton Ellis is a novel that delves into the life of Patrick Bateman, a wealthy and materialistic investment banker living in Manhattan during the late '80s and early '90s. The book follows Bateman's descent into madness as he struggles with his identity, connections, and reality amidst a backdrop of extreme violence and graphic descriptions. The writing style of the book combines dark humor, disturbing scenes of violence, and a sharp critique of American society's obsession with consumerism and superficiality.
The narrative of 'American Psycho' juxtaposes the horrific with the banal, offering a satirical commentary on the culture of wealthy, self-centered individuals who are detached from the consequences of their actions. Through Bateman's perspective, the novel explores themes of excess, narcissism, and the emptiness of a life driven by material possessions and societal expectations. The book challenges readers to question the values of the era it portrays and leaves them contemplating the blurred lines between reality and delusion.
ABANDON ALL HOPE YE WHO ENTER HERE is scrawled in blood red lettering on the side of the Chemical Bank near the corner of Eleventh and First and is in print large enough to be seen from the backseat o... - #3
'Sweet Land Stories' by E.L. Doctorow is a collection of short stories that delve into the dark side of human nature, portraying heartache, pain, and struggles at various levels of society and different times. The stories are described as bleak, riveting, and reminiscent of Faulkner, with a focus on characters who face challenges and hardships, showcasing themes of abuse, neglect, and societal issues. The writing style is praised for being heartfelt, beautifully written, and engaging, with readers expressing admiration for Doctorow's storytelling skills and character development.
Mama said I was thenceforth to be her nephew, and to call her Aunt Dora. She said our fortune depended on her not having a son as old as eighteen who looked more like twenty. Say Aunt Dora, she said. ... - #4
'The Preserve' by Patrick Lestewka is a gripping novel that combines elements of horror, action, and suspense. The story follows a group of American soldiers from the Vietnam War who are reunited under mysterious circumstances to face a terrifying ordeal at The Preserve. The plot involves a thrilling encounter with various monsters, creating a chaotic and intense narrative that keeps readers on the edge of their seats. The author's writing style is described as graphic and vivid, with a unique ability to evoke strong emotions and reactions from the readers. The book explores themes of friendship, survival, and the dark side of human nature, making it a compelling and thought-provoking read.
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"Dark Sister" by Graham Joyce follows the story of Maggie, a frustrated English housewife who discovers an old Book of Shadows in her house. As the diary within the book fills with delicate writing, Maggie uncovers her own powers and delves into the world of witchcraft. The novel explores a mix of mysticism and the mundane, showcasing a woman's journey of self-discovery and the awakening of hidden abilities. Joyce's clean and uncluttered writing style vividly depicts Maggie's exploration of herbal lore witchcraft, her encounters with strange characters, and the unexpected twists that add depth to the story.
It was a standard Victorian fireplace, with a wrought-iron and tiled surround. Maggie was already rubbing at the tiles, exposing bright, floral patterns. The grate was intact, though choked with soot ... - #6
"Right to Life" by Jack Ketchum is a novella that tells the story of a woman named Sara Foster who is kidnapped and subjected to months of torture and sensory deprivation by a sadistic couple. The book is described as a harrowing tale that depicts the grisly events that unfold in the kidnappers' basement. Some readers found the plot to be unbelievable at times, with one reader questioning why no one was looking for a pregnant woman abducted in broad daylight. The book is critiqued for its confusing ending and the characterization of the antagonist is said to be more horrible than the horror itself.
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The Winner Stands Alone by Paulo Coelho is a thriller set during the Cannes Film Festival, following the wealthy Russian businessman, Igor, who is on a quest to win back his ex-wife by committing a series of murders. The book delves into the dark side of human nature, exploring themes of obsession, revenge, and the destructive power of love. The narrative also provides commentary on the fashion and movie industries, portraying a world of excess and superficiality.
The writing style of the book is described as simple and easy to read, with a focus on the actions and thoughts of the characters. The plot unfolds in a way that keeps the reader engaged, particularly during the murder scenes, which are depicted with skill and detail. However, some readers found the character development lacking and the pacing slow, impacting the overall enjoyment of the book.
The Beretta Px4 compact pistol is slightly larger than a mobile phone, weighs around seven hundred grams, and can fire ten shots. It is small, light, invisible when carried in a pocket, and its small ... - #8
The Human Factor by Graham Greene is a spy novel that delves into the world of espionage without the conventional violence, presenting the British Secret Service as a mundane profession rather than a glamorous one. The plot revolves around Maurice Castle, a middle-aged intelligence officer, who becomes a double agent in order to stay with his black South African wife, Sarah. The story explores themes of loyalty, love, race, apartheid, and the moral ambiguity that haunts individuals involved in espionage.
The writing style of The Human Factor focuses more on character development and personal struggles rather than action-packed sequences. Greene's craftsmanship shines through in creating a carefully balanced cast of characters and rich contrasts in their decisions regarding marriage, friendship, professional integrity, and basic morality. The novel offers a deep insight into human psychology and emotion, presenting a complex narrative that navigates the personal and professional lives of the characters amidst international tension and espionage.
Castle, ever since he had joined the firm as a young recruit more than thirty years ago, had taken his lunch in a public house behind St James’s Street, not far from the office. If he had been asked w... - #9
"Others" by James Herbert follows the story of private investigator Nicholas Dismas as he investigates a missing baby at a nursing home called 'Perfect Rest'. The plot unfolds with suspense, romance, intrigue, and horror, showcasing a mix of supernatural elements and physical deformities among the characters. The narrative delves into themes of redemption and explores the dark side of human nature in a chilling and creepy setting.
It was a day like any other—except there are no days in that singular (in both senses of the words) place. No minutes, no hours, weeks, or years. No seconds either. There is no time in Hell, you see. ... - #10
'The Girl on the Train' by Paula Hawkins is a psychological thriller that revolves around three women - Anna, Megan, and Rachel - whose lives intertwine in a dark and horrific manner. The story is narrated through multiple perspectives, offering a tale full of hidden secrets, desires, and passions. The plot unfolds with suspense and mystery, as the characters grapple with damaged pasts, alcoholism, and dark secrets that lead to a shocking and unpredictable ending.
The book is praised for its innovative storytelling, time-shifting narrative, and the ability to keep readers engaged with its suspenseful twists. Despite some readers finding the characters unlikable or the ending abrupt, the overall consensus is that 'The Girl on the Train' is a gripping and compelling read that delves into themes of trust, deception, and the dark side of human nature.
There is a pile of clothing on the side of the train tracks. Light-blue cloth—a shirt, perhaps—jumbled up with something dirty white. It’s probably rubbish, part of a load dumped into the scrubby litt...