Books matching: existential reflection
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- #1
Save:A singular, boundary-pushing existential experience - breathtaking if you’re in the mood, baffling if you’re not. Not for everyone, but unforgettable for the right reader.
'The Passion According to G.H.' by Clarice Lispector is a unique and thought-provoking novel that delves into philosophical and existential themes through the internal monologue of a woman who undergoes a deep existential experience triggered by the discovery of a cockroach. The narrative is described as a disjointed internal monologue with constant contradictions and paradoxes, alternating between deep philosophical musings about the universe, God, and love, and surrealistic performances. The writing style is noted for its rich language, compelling philosophy, and unique structure that focuses more on the stream of the protagonist's thoughts rather than external actions.
—————— I’m searching, I’m searching. I’m trying to understand. Trying to give what I’ve lived to somebody else and I don’t know to whom, but I don’t want to keep what I lived. I don’t know what to do...1964•212 pages - #2
Save:A beautifully written, introspective novel about desire, beauty, and the ache of midlife, but best suited to readers who appreciate character studies and literary prose over plot-driven drama.
By Nightfall by Michael Cunningham is a novel that delves into the life of Peter Harris, a middle-aged art dealer in Manhattan. His seemingly normal life with his wife, Rebecca, and their daughter takes a turn when Rebecca's younger brother, Mizzy, enters the picture. Peter finds himself drawn to Mizzy, leading to a series of events that challenge his relationships and perceptions of beauty. The narrative explores themes of beauty, love, self-discovery, and the complexities of human relationships, all set against the backdrop of the New York art world.
One of the inscrutable old horses that pull tourist carriages has been hit by a car somewhere up on Broadway, which has stopped traffic all the way down to the Port Authority, which is making Peter an...September 2010•256 pages - #3
Save:A stunning, challenging debut packed with psychological depth and poetic flair – perfect for readers who appreciate literary experimentation and diving into the wild heart of consciousness.
Near to the Wild Heart by Clarice Lispector is a novel that delves into the life of the central character Joana, exploring her philosophical questions, unconventional nature, and introspective journey through childhood, adolescence, marriage, and self-discovery. The narrative style of the book is described as impressionistic, dreamlike, and introspective, reminiscent of modernist writers like Virginia Woolf and James Joyce. Joana's fierce determination to stay true to herself, her complex relationships, and her musings on life, death, and identity are at the core of this extraordinary novel.
Daddy's typewriter was tapping out tac-tac..tac-tac-tac... The clock chimed brightly ting-ting... ting-ting... The silence dragged out zzzzzzz. The wardrobe was saying what? clothes — clothes — clothe...1943•214 pages - #4
Save:Brilliant, thought-provoking, and occasionally bleak - "The Wall" is a classic for those ready to stare into the abyss (and maybe laugh at it). Not your average bedtime story, but unforgettable for the right reader.
'The Wall' by Jean-Paul Sartre is a collection of short stories that delve into existential themes and human experiences. The title story, 'The Wall', portrays the thoughts of men facing imminent execution during the Spanish Civil War, while other stories explore topics such as intimacy, identity, and the complexities of human relationships. Sartre's writing style is described as bitingly visceral, with a focus on existentialism, anti-bourgeois sentiments, and sexually decadent portrayals of characters in Paris.
Sartre's stories are known for their depth and complexity, challenging readers to engage emotionally and thoughtfully with the characters and themes presented. The narratives are described as demanding in terms of engagement but ultimately rewarding for readers who are open to exploring existential questions and delving into the psyche of the characters. offers a mix of dark, introspective storytelling that prompts readers to think deeply about life, relationships, and the human condition.
They pushed us into a big white room and I began to blink because the light hurt my eyes. Then I saw a table and four men behind the table, civilians, looking over the papers. They had bunched another...1939•183 pages - #5
Save:A gorgeously written, unconventional sci-fi novel that will delight fans of poetic language and big ideas, but may frustrate those looking for fast-paced action or traditional storytelling.
Toward Eternity by Anton Hur explores a future where AI and nanotechnology dominate society. The plot revolves around the concept that poetry can unlock the souls of AI entities, leading to a complex interaction between human and artificial consciousness. The narrative unfolds in a unique journaling format, presenting entries from various characters across centuries, allowing reflections on humanity and existence amidst a post-apocalyptic backdrop.
The writing style is described as poetic and often dreamlike, capturing deep themes with a focus on language and its power. While some readers appreciated its lyrical quality and philosophical insights, others found it dense with exposition. Despite its ambitious ideas and beautiful prose, there are critiques about its accessibility and emotional connection, creating a divide among readers.
He examines his hands. Or his “hands.” The knowledge of the nanites had a universe to cross in terms of time, and he is far from being a faithful replication of the original. But because nothing dies...July 2024 - #6
Save:A thoughtful, moody exploration of self, faith, and meaning - sometimes heavy, always thought-provoking. Not Greene's most accessible, but a rewarding read for those intrigued by inner conflict and philosophical depth.
A Burnt-Out Case by Graham Greene follows the story of Querry, a world-famous architect who, feeling burnt out and disillusioned with life, seeks solace in a leper colony in the Congo. Despite his attempts to escape his past and live a quiet life of service, Querry is constantly confronted with his previous fame and struggles with his own beliefs and identity. The novel explores themes of faith, self-discovery, and the complexities of human relationships, all set against the backdrop of a remote leper colony overseen by Catholic missionaries. Greene's writing style is described as poignant, introspective, and filled with symbolism, providing a deep and thought-provoking reading experience.
The cabin-passenger wrote in his diary a parody of Descartes: ‘I feel discomfort, therefore I am alive,’ then sat pen in hand with no more to record. The captain in a white soutane stood by the open w...1960•218 pages - #7
Save:A trippy, unique, and disquieting journey - masterful if you like your horror weird and open-ended, but a confusing ride for anyone who needs closure.
'I Am Behind You' by John Ajvide Lindqvist is a surreal supernatural chiller that follows four very different families waking up in an endless field of grass, separated from the rest of the world. The novel explores the characters' humanity in vulnerable ways, creating a feeling of uneasiness and confusion throughout the story. Lindqvist's writing style pulls readers into the book, leaving them with a sense of unease even after finishing it.
The plot of 'I Am Behind You' focuses on the characters' points of view, with alternating perspectives including those of a dog and a cat. As the characters navigate their surreal and unsettling new reality, practical concerns quickly give way to more threatening events. The novel delves into the emotional and psychological issues of the characters, revealing their backstories and how they respond to increasingly eerie circumstances.
Isabelle Sundberg props herself up on her elbow. Her six-year-old daughter Molly is kneeling by the window. Isabelle pushes her out of the way and pulls back the curtain. She is just about to point in...2014•415 pages - #8
Save:A dazzling, challenging sequel for lovers of poetic innovation - come for the bold style, stay for the emotional punch. Not for everyone, but unforgettable for the adventurous reader.
'Red Doc>' by Anne Carson is a sequel to 'Autobiography of Red', depicting a more somber and melancholic tone. The story follows the characters Geryon and Herakles as they navigate through life after myth, with Herakles returning from war as a damaged individual suffering from post-traumatic stress. The plot is described as meandering and confusing at times, but still engrossing and bewitching due to Carson's unique style of storytelling through poetry. The book explores the themes of existence, love, and the impact of past choices on present lives.
March 2013•192 pages - #9
Save:A strange, inventive, emotionally raw quest that's as much about searching for meaning as globe-trotting. Worth a try if you like your fiction messy, thoughtful, and a bit wild.
"You Shall Know Our Velocity!" by Dave Eggers is a novel that follows two friends, Will and Hand, as they embark on a journey around the world to give away a large inheritance. The book explores their adventures, the complexities of their friendship, and the underlying themes of guilt, fate, and responsibility. The narrative alternates between travel accounts and flashback sequences, creating a compelling story that captures the essence of free-spirited travel and the emotional turmoil of the characters.
The writing style of the book is described as vivid, living, and breathing, enveloping the reader in the urgency and uncertainty of life. The author, Dave Eggers, showcases his creativity, humor, and ability to connect with readers through his abstract and sometimes strange storytelling. The book delves into the inner workings of the main characters' minds, balancing between being a travel story and a psychoanalysis of the protagonist, adding layers of depth to the narrative.
I was talking to Hand, one of my two best friends, the one still alive, and we were planning to leave. At this point there were good days, good weeks, when we pretended that it was acceptable that Jac...2002•397 pages - #10
Save:A moody, artful exploration of obsession and longing - more mood piece than plot-driven, with writing that’s sure to divide. Worth a try if you’re into beautifully strange literary fiction.
"Hex" by Rebecca Dinerstein Knight follows the journey of Nell, a PhD botanist at Columbia University, who faces expulsion after her collection of poisonous plants leads to a tragic incident in a college laboratory. The novel delves into Nell's day-to-day life post-expulsion, focusing on her unrequited love for her mentor and her complex relationships with those around her. Through a character-driven narrative, the book explores themes of passion, desire, obsession, and the consequences of these emotions colliding. The writing style is heavily descriptive, filled with metaphors that bring Nell's character to life in a way that feels both passionate and sardonic.
I am a woman who wakes up hungry. Tom touched only coffee till noon. You do what you’re capable of at some point, so Tom and I left each other. I wanted breakfast, he wanted liberty, and who could bla...March 2020•223 pages
