Meet New Books
Meet New Books

Books matching: insightful social critique

16 result(s)

Readers also searched for:

Page 1
Showing 1 - 10 of 16 
  1. #1

    The Portable Dorothy Parker by Dorothy Parker
    Save:

    'The Portable Dorothy Parker' is a compilation that delves into the life and writings of Dorothy Parker, showcasing her witty and humorous yet poignant style. The book includes a variety of content such as short stories, light verse, articles, letters, and reviews, offering readers a deep insight into Parker's thoughts and character. Through her writings, Parker addresses themes of pain, self-doubt, and societal critique, all wrapped in her unique blend of humor and wisdom.

    The book not only presents Parker's well-known witticisms but also reveals her talent for character studies and her ability to tackle social issues with irony and insight. Readers can expect a mix of amusing, moving, and thought-provoking pieces that showcase Parker's sharp eye, witty tongue, and ability to balance humor with depth in her writing.


  2. #2

    La carte et le territoire by Michel Houellebecq
    Save:

    'La Carte et la Territoire' by Michel Houellebecq delves into a future society hit by financial cutbacks on culture, where cultural heritage has become folklore for wealthy tourists. The main character, Jed, a lethargic artist, unexpectedly finds commercial success with his boring art. The novel takes a cynical view of the art scene, depicting a world where art is judged solely by its financial effectiveness. The story includes a cameo by the author himself, adding a metafictional layer to the narrative.


  3. #3

    Lois the Witch by Elizabeth Gaskell
    Save:

    In "Lois the Witch" by Elizabeth Gaskell, the story is set during the Salem Witch trials and follows the protagonist, Lois Barclay, a young English girl who finds herself accused of witchcraft in a society filled with suspicion and hysteria. Gaskell humanizes the complex sociological matter of the witch trials, portraying Lois as a victim of being different in a conformist society. The book delves into themes of religious zealotry, social injustices, and the destructive power of unfounded accusations.

    Gaskell's writing style in "Lois the Witch" is described as chilling, powerful, and thought-provoking. She skillfully portrays the mindset of the Salem community, where selfishness, fear, and religious intolerance reign. Through rich character development and detailed descriptions, Gaskell creates a narrative that explores the consequences of societal pressures and the dangers of fanaticism.

    December 12th, 1747. —My life has been strangely bound up with extraordinary incidents, some of which occurred before I had any connection with the principal actors in them, or indeed, before I even k...

  4. The Posthumous Memoirs of Bras Cubas by Machado de Assis is a Brazilian classic narrated by Bras Cubas himself, a man reflecting on life from beyond the grave. The book is described as funny, profound, and filled with musings on human follies and predicaments delivered through delicate satire and truthfulness. The novel showcases a unique narrative structure, engaging writing style, and a mix of humor and insight that resonates with readers.

    As it so happened, one day in the morning while I was strolling about my place an idea started to hang from the trapeze I have in my brain. Once hanging there it began to wave its arms and legs and ex...

  5. #5

    A Collection of Essays by George Orwell
    Save:

    'A Collection of Essays' by George Orwell is a compilation of essays covering a wide range of topics such as literary criticism, colonialism, political ideologies, and personal reflections. Orwell delves into various themes like public sentiment, class dynamics, patriotism, and the essence of being human. The essays offer insights into Orwell's development as a writer, his experiences in colonial Burma, and his critical analysis of prominent figures like Rudyard Kipling, Charles Dickens, Gandhi, and Henry Miller.


  6. #6

    Why I Write by George Orwell
    Save:

    'Why I Write' by George Orwell is a collection of essays that delve into various topics such as Orwell's reasons for writing, his analysis of England during wartime, the interrelationship between politics and the English language, and reflections on societal issues. Through Orwell's direct and radical writing style, the essays provide compelling and lucid insights on propaganda, political principles, journalism standards, and the societal landscape during Orwell's time. offers a mix of personal reflections, political commentary, and societal critiques, showcasing Orwell's unwavering support for democratic Socialism and his keen observations on the world around him.

    From a very early age, perhaps the age of five or six, I knew that when I grew up I should be a writer. Between the ages of about seventeen and twenty-four I tried to abandon this idea, but I did so w...

  7. #7

    He Knew He Was Right by Anthony Trollope
    Save:

    He Knew He Was Right by Anthony Trollope is a Victorian novel that delves into the complexities of marriage, jealousy, and human psychology. The story follows the unraveling marriage of Louis and Emily Trevelyan, triggered by Colonel Osborne's interference and Louis's increasing paranoia. Set against the backdrop of societal expectations and the struggle for women's rights, the novel explores themes of pride, ego, and the consequences of stubbornness in relationships. Trollope weaves multiple subplots involving various characters grappling with love, marriage, and societal norms, ultimately offering a deep psychological analysis of human behavior within the constraints of Victorian society.

    When Louis Trevelyan was twenty-four years old, he had all the world before him where to choose; and, among other things, he chose to go to the Mandarin Islands, and there fell in love with Emily Rowl...

  8. #8

    The Fire Next Time by James Baldwin
    Save:

    'The Fire Next Time' by James Baldwin is a powerful and timely collection of essays that delve into the issues of race relations in America, specifically focusing on the experiences of Black individuals. Baldwin's writing style is described as eloquent, passionate, and thought-provoking, as he reflects on his own upbringing in Harlem, the role of religion, encounters with figures like Elijah Muhammad, and the systemic racism that pervades society. Through vivid anecdotes and insightful observations, Baldwin challenges both white and black Americans to confront the realities of racial inequality and strive for change. Despite being written in the 1960s, the themes and messages in the book remain relevant and poignant today, highlighting the enduring impact of Baldwin's words.

    I HAVE BEGUN this letter five times and torn it up five times. I keep seeing your face, which is also the face of your father and my brother. Like him, you are tough, dark, vulnerable, moody—with a ve...

  9. Readers find 'Beyond Good and Evil' to be a thought-provoking and intense exploration of philosophy, morality, and the human condition. The book presents Nietzsche's challenging ideas with urgency and passion, delving into topics such as perspectivism, the Superman, decadence, master morality, and the concept of values. The writing style is described as direct, clear, and engaging, with a mix of insightful observations, contradictions, and challenging perspectives. The book is seen as a significant work in Nietzsche's philosophy, addressing existential questions and societal norms in a provocative manner.

    1. The Will to Truth, which is to tempt us to many a hazardous enterprise, the famous Truthfulness of which all philosophers have hitherto spoken with respect, what questions has this Will to Truth no...

  10. #10

    Party of One: The Loners' Manifesto by Anneli Rufus
    Save:

    'Party of One: The Loners' Manifesto' by Anneli Rufus is a book that delves into the misunderstood world of loners. The author challenges societal norms and stereotypes surrounding loners, highlighting their positive attributes and contributions to society. Through a combination of personal experiences, research, and anecdotes, Rufus offers a unique perspective on what it means to be a loner in a world that often values extroversion.


Page 1 of 2Next Page