Books matching: intellectual arrogance
5 result(s)
- #1
Save:The Rachel Papers by Martin Amis follows the protagonist Charles Highway as he navigates his teenage years, focusing on his attempts to seduce an older woman named Rachel before his twentieth birthday. The book delves into Charles' self-centered nature, his relationships with women, and his struggles with self-awareness and emotional connection. The writing style is described as dark, quirky, and humorous, with a focus on satire and self-awareness.
My name is Charles Highway, though you wouldn’t think it to look at me. It’s such a rangy, well-travelled, big-cocked name and, to look at, I am none of these. I wear glasses for a start, have done si... - #2
Save:The Greek Coffin Mystery by Ellery Queen is a classic detective novel following young Ellery and his father, Inspector Queen, as they unravel a complex mystery involving a missing will, a murdered man found in a coffin, stolen art, and multiple false solutions. The book is known for its intricate plotting, devilishly intricate plot, and a brilliant surprise ending that keeps readers engaged till the end. Set in the 1930s, the story is filled with red herrings, mysterious characters, and unexpected twists that challenge both the detective and the reader.
The writing style of The Greek Coffin Mystery has been described as classic and vintage, with a focus on intricate details and a meticulous unraveling of the plot. The author, Ellery Queen, known for providing all clues to the reader for solving the mystery, challenges readers directly to engage in the puzzle-solving process. Despite some criticisms for stilted writing and offensive language, the book is praised for its suspenseful storytelling and complex puzzle that keeps readers guessing till the surprising conclusion.
FROM THE VERY BEGINNING the Khalkis case struck a somber note. It began, as was peculiarly harmonious in the light of what was to come, with the death of an old man. The death of this old man wove its...
(Also, see 100 recommendations for the series Ellery Queen Detective ) 'Leopold and Loeb: The Crime of the Century' by Hal Higdon delves into the infamous case of Nathan Leopold and Richard Loeb, two affluent teenagers who committed a shocking murder for intellectual thrills. Higdon meticulously explores the crime, investigation, and the motives behind it, skillfully debunking theories and separating historical facts from myths surrounding the case. While some readers found the writing style to be distracting, the book offers a comprehensive account of the primary participants and the events leading up to the crime, keeping the readers engaged with local color and historical context.
- #4
Save:'The Star Diaries: Further Reminiscences of Ijon Tichy' by Stanisław Lem is a collection of short stories following the adventures of space traveler Ijon Tichy as he navigates through various philosophical and humorous situations. The stories delve into intellectual quandaries supported by motivated, believable characters, with endings that deliver startling revelations. Lem's writing style is characterized by wit, intelligence, clever wordplay, and a mix of science fiction and fantasy elements that operate on multiple levels, blending philosophy, satire, and social commentary seamlessly.
It was on a Monday, April second—I was cruising in the vicinity of Betelgeuse—when a meteor no larger than a lima bean pierced the hull, shattered the drive regulator and part of the rudder, as a resu... 'Labyrinths: Selected Stories and Other Writings' by Jorge Luis Borges is a collection of short stories, essays, and parables that explore themes such as paradoxes, brain teasers, philosophy, and metaphysics. Borges plays with concepts of reality and challenges notions of time and infinity in a clever and profound manner. The stories often revolve around labyrinths, books, history, and the exploration of tangled spaces and time, creating a thought-provoking and intellectually stimulating read.
The writing style of Borges is described as deep, philosophical, original, and thought-provoking. The stories are characterized by their intellectual conceits, simplicity in complexity, and the ability to make readers question reality and perception. Borges' work is praised for its profound meanings, originality, and the way each story presents a wealth of ideas that resonate with readers long after reading them.
I first read Jorge Luis Borges’ Labyrinthsin an armchair upholstered with a smooth lettuce-green brocade,patterned with leaves that were themselves not unlike lettuce, though they were alsorather like...
