Books matching: emotional disconnection
60 result(s)
- #1
Alien Hearts by Guy de Maupassant is a novel that delves into the complexities of love and relationships, particularly focusing on the emotional disconnection between a couple deeply in love. The story follows Andre Mariolle, a reclusive man who finds himself drawn into the world of Madame de Burne, a sophisticated widow. As Mariolle falls for Madame de Burne, he experiences ecstasy, jealousy, doubts, and disillusionment, all while grappling with the realization that their feelings for each other stem from 'alien hearts'. The narrative is told from Mariolle's perspective, offering insights into the nature of love, independence, and the pain it can bring when two individuals are fundamentally mismatched.
The writing style of Guy de Maupassant in Alien Hearts is described as highly romantic and intense, showcasing his fine psychological understanding of love and its disappointments. The author weaves a tale that explores the inner workings of the characters, their desires, and struggles with relationships in a 19th-century upper-class society in France. Through vivid descriptions and nuanced character development, Maupassant paints a poignant picture of unrequited love, societal expectations, and the complexities of human emotions.
- #2
Man Candy by Melanie Harlow is a friends to lovers romance that follows the story of Jaime and Quinn, who have known each other since childhood. The book explores their rekindled attraction and the challenges they face as they navigate their feelings for each other. The plot is filled with humor, steamy chemistry, and emotional depth, making it a touching and enjoyable read. Melanie Harlow's writing style captivates readers with engaging characters, heartfelt moments, and sizzling sex scenes, creating a must-read book for fans of sweet and hot romances.
That’s not a metaphor, by the way—I was literally, physically trapped in a closet. It wasn’t even my closet; it was his. And it had that guy-closet smell, you know? Leather and cologne up front, base ... - #3
'The Go-Between' by L.P. Hartley is a coming-of-age story set in the summer of 1900 in England. The plot follows a young boy named Leo, who finds himself entangled in a scandalous affair between his friend's older sister and a local farmer. Leo acts as a go-between, carrying notes between the two lovers, unaware of the implications of his actions. The story unfolds against the backdrop of Victorian England, portraying the tension between societal expectations and personal desires. The writing style is described as lyrical, nostalgic, and reflective, with a focus on innocence, loss of childhood, and the impact of past events on the present.
THE 8TH of July was a Sunday, and on the following Monday I left West Hatch, the village where we lived near Salisbury, for Brandham Hall. My mother arranged that my Aunt Charlotte, a Londoner, should... - #4
'It Didn't Start with You' by Mark Wolynn delves into the concept of inherited family trauma and how it shapes individuals' lives. Readers found the book to provide insights on how traumas are passed down through generations, exploring the impact of ancestral experiences on present behaviors and emotions. The author combines scientific explanations with anecdotal examples to help readers understand the significance of exploring their family history to heal past wounds and end destructive cycles.
A well-documented feature of trauma, one familiar to many, is our inability to articulate what happens to us. Not only do we lose our words, but something happens with our memory as well. During a tra... - #5
'The Loss of All Lost Things' by Amina Gautier is a collection of carefully crafted short stories that delve into the profound themes of loss and grief. The stories revolve around characters who have experienced various forms of loss, such as lost relationships, lost loved ones, and lost sense of self. The writing style of Amina Gautier creates immediacy and ease, drawing readers into the emotional turmoil of the characters as they navigate through their losses. Each story opens at crucial points, capturing the raw emotions and complexities of human experiences.
The book portrays characters like Caroline, Ray, Bernice, and Judy who are grappling with different aspects of loss in their lives, be it loss of love, loss of family connections, or loss of purpose. Through vivid descriptions and poignant imagery, the author skillfully depicts the effects of loss on the human heart, leaving readers haunted by the emotional depth and authenticity of the narratives.
The Boy in the Earth is a novella that delves deep into the life of an unnamed twenty-something taxi driver in Tokyo, who recounts his tumultuous past from abandonment to his current state. Written in an existentialist tone, the narrative offers flashes of his troubled childhood marked by abuse and instability. The protagonist's monologue, with interjections from his alcoholic girlfriend, slowly reveals his self-destructive tendencies and disturbing memories, ultimately exploring themes of depression, alienation, and the search for meaning in life.
The author, Fuminori Nakamura, skillfully crafts a narrative that is both introspective and psychologically gripping. Through spare prose and in-depth character exploration, Nakamura presents a story that forces readers to confront themes of existential angst, societal alienation, and the complexities of human nature. The novella, while short in length, offers a profound examination of the protagonist's inner turmoil and the impact of his traumatic past on his present existence.
In the flood of headlights surrounding me, I saw that there was no escape. The motorcycles were just gunning their engines and watching me as I stood there, helpless to do anything. But I doubted that...- #7
'Nothing Natural' by Jenny Diski is a compelling and disturbing novel that delves deeply into the life of a woman named Rachel who becomes involved in a sadomasochistic relationship with an emotionally distant man. The book explores Rachel's struggles with depression, emotional detachment, and self-worth, while also touching upon themes of power dynamics, sexual obsession, and the complexities of human relationships. Diski's writing style is described as clear, blunt, and stark, effectively portraying the dark and gritty aspects of the protagonist's life with a sense of realism and sensitivity.
- #8
'A Perfect Day for Bananafish' by J.D. Salinger is a collection of short stories that captivate readers with its intricate storytelling and profound character development. The plot delves into themes of mental health, trauma, and the preservation of innocence, as seen through the lens of complex characters like Seymour Glass. Salinger's writing style is described as whimsical, dark, and enigmatic, with a keen ability to evoke deep emotions and provoke thought in readers. is a blend of humor, weirdness, and shock that leaves a lasting impact on those who read it.
- #9
'Exciting Times' by Naoise Dolan follows the story of Ava, an Irish teacher of English in Hong Kong, navigating romantic relationships with an older expat man named Julian and a young Hong Kong woman named Edith. The narrative delves into Ava's journey of self-discovery, intimacy, and finding her place in the world. explores themes of love, cynicism, unspoken feelings, and unlikely connections through the lens of complex and well-written characters.
The writing style of 'Exciting Times' is characterized by short, snappy chapters that keep the story moving. The relationships between Ava, Julian, and Edith take center stage, showcasing realistic human interactions and complexities. captures the essence of millennial fiction, offering a cheery yet insightful narrative that revolves around the dynamics between the characters rather than a fast-paced plot.
My banker friend Julian first took me for lunch in July, the month I arrived in Hong Kong. I’d forgotten which exit of the station we were meeting at, but he called saying he saw me outside Kee Wah Ba... - #10
Universal Harvester by John Darnielle is a novel set in the small town of Nevada, Iowa, where mysterious and creepy images start appearing on videotapes at a local rental store, Video Hut. The story unfolds in a non-linear manner, exploring the lives of characters dealing with loss, loneliness, and unsettling events. The narrative weaves together different timelines and perspectives, creating an eerie atmosphere that keeps readers engaged in uncovering the mysteries surrounding the town and its inhabitants.
The book delves into themes of isolation, the unknown, and how individuals cope with grief and absence. Through a mix of lyrical writing, unconventional storytelling, and a creeping sense of urgency, Universal Harvester offers a unique reading experience that challenges readers to piece together the fragmented narratives and interpret the deeper meanings behind the unsettling events that unfold in the story.
People usually didn’t say anything when they returned their tapes to the Video Hut: in a single and somewhat graceful movement, they’d approach the counter, slide the tapes toward whoever was statione...