Books matching: melancholic
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- #1
Save:In "Never Let Me Go" by Kazuo Ishiguro, readers are taken on a haunting journey through the lives of Kathy, Ruth, and Tommy, who were students at the enigmatic Hailsham School. Set in a darkly skewed version of contemporary England, the story delves into the characters' attempts to come to terms with their childhood at Hailsham and the inevitable fate that awaits them as clones raised for organ donation. The narrative, narrated by Kathy at the age of 31, unfolds slowly, revealing the fragility of life and exploring themes of love, friendship, memory, and the eerie reality of their existence.
The book masterfully weaves together themes of identity, purpose, and the inevitability of mortality, all set within an unsettling alternative reality where the characters grapple with their predetermined destinies. Ishiguro's writing style is described as quiet, foreboding, and painterly, with a patient reveal of the narrative that evokes deep emotions and contemplation. Through a conversational form of storytelling, the novel raises ethical questions and leaves readers pondering the characters' lives and the haunting concept of never being able to escape their fate.
My name is Kathy H. I’m thirty-one years old, and I’ve been a carer now for over eleven years. That sounds long enough, I know, but actually they want me to go on for another eight months, until the e... - #2
Save:Set in Tokyo during the late 1960s, "Norwegian Wood" by Haruki Murakami tells the story of Toru, a college student navigating the aftermath of his best friend's suicide and the mental health struggles of his friend's girlfriend, Naoko. As Toru meets Midori, a progressive fellow student, he is faced with the challenge of letting go of the past to embrace the future. The novel delves into themes of mental health, suicide, relationships, and personal growth in a realistic and reflective manner, all set against the backdrop of late 1960s Tokyo.
Murakami's writing style in "Norwegian Wood" is described as poignant, reflective, and touching. The novel unfolds at a walking pace, punctuated by small moments of loss and heartbreak, devoid of the magical realism present in his other works. The characters, particularly Toru, Naoko, and Midori, are portrayed with depth and complexity as they navigate the complexities of life, love, and personal struggles.
I WAS THIRTY-SEVEN THEN, STRAPPED IN MY SEAT AS THE HUGE 747 plunged through dense cloud cover on approach to the Hamburg airport. Cold November rains drenched the earth and lent everything the gloomy... - #3
Save:The Remains of the Day by Kazuo Ishiguro is a poignant and introspective novel that follows the life of Mr. Stevens, a butler reflecting on his dedicated service at Darlington Hall. Through a series of memories and musings, the book delves into themes of loyalty, dignity, the impact of personal relationships, and the consequences of unwavering dedication to one's work. The narrative unfolds as Stevens embarks on a journey through England's countryside, providing a backdrop for his contemplation of past events and relationships, particularly with the housekeeper, Miss Kenton.
Tonight, I find myself here in a guest house in the city of Salisbury. The first day of my trip is now completed, and all in all, I must say I am quite satisfied. This expedition began this morning al... - #4
Save:"A Little Life" by Hanya Yanagihara is a novel that delves into the lives of four men and their enduring friendship, with a focus on the character Jude who has survived significant abuse in his past. The book intricately portrays the struggles and relationships of the characters over time, leading readers through a rollercoaster of emotions from happiness to utter sadness. The author's writing style is described as immersive, intense, and at times, graphic, as it explores themes of love, trauma, and resilience in the face of adversity.
THE ELEVENTH APARTMENT had only one closet, but it did have a sliding glass door that opened onto a small balcony, from which he could see a man sitting across the way, outdoors in only a T-shirt and ... - #5
Save:'Normal People' by Sally Rooney follows the complex relationship between two young individuals, Marianne and Connell, as they navigate through high school and college years, dealing with issues of miscommunication, self-worth, and emotional struggles. The story delves into the intricacies of their evolving friendship and love, portraying realistic dialogues and character interactions that highlight the challenges faced by the protagonists as they grow and change over time. Rooney's writing style captures the uncertainties and vulnerabilities of the characters, creating a narrative that explores themes of love, friendship, and personal growth.
She turns and walks down the hall. He follows her, closing the door behind him. Down a few steps in the kitchen, his mother Lorraine is peeling off a pair of rubber gloves. Marianne hops onto the coun... - #6
Save:"Stoner" by John Williams follows the life of William Stoner, a university professor whose existence is marked by a series of disappointments and tragic events. Despite facing personal and professional challenges, Stoner finds solace in his love for literature and experiences fleeting moments of joy. The novel delves into themes of quiet desperation, loneliness, and the struggle to maintain dignity in the face of adversity, painting a poignant portrait of an ordinary man navigating the complexities of life.
Through a minimalist and precise prose style, John Williams masterfully captures the emotional depth of Stoner's journey, exploring themes of existentialism, human behavior, and the pursuit of happiness. The narrative unfolds with a melancholic tone, offering a contemplative reflection on the profound impact of seemingly small moments and decisions in shaping one's life trajectory.
WILLIAM STONER ENTERED the University of Missouri as a freshman in the year 1910, at the age of nineteen. Eight years later, during the height of World War I, he received his Doctor of Philosophy degr... - #7
Save:The Bell Jar by Sylvia Plath is a haunting and beautifully written novel that delves into the descent of Esther Greenwood into madness and depression. The story follows Esther, a young woman with a bright future, as she struggles with her mental health, ends up in a psychiatric ward after a suicide attempt, and navigates her way back to normalcy. Plath's writing style is described as poetic, vivid, and sparse, perfectly capturing the delicate yet powerful essence of the subject matter.
The book provides a raw and honest portrayal of depression, mental illness, and the societal pressures faced by women in the 1950s America. Plath's storytelling is poignant, dark, and at times morbidly funny, offering a deep insight into Esther's internal struggles and the challenges she encounters on her journey towards self-discovery and recovery.
It was a queer, sultry summer, the summer they electrocuted the Rosenbergs, and I didn’t know what I was doing in New York. I’m stupid about executions. The idea of being electrocuted makes me sick, a... - #8
Save:The Road by Cormac McCarthy is a post-apocalyptic tale that follows a father and son as they navigate through a desolate and brutal world. The story delves into themes of survival, humanity, and the unbreakable bond between parent and child. McCarthy's writing style, described as sparse and bleak, perfectly captures the grim and hopeless atmosphere of the dystopian setting, drawing readers into the harrowing journey of the protagonists.
When he woke in the woods in the dark and the cold of the night he'd reach out to touch the child sleeping beside him. Nights dark beyond darkness and the days more gray each one than what had gone be... - #9
Save:"No Longer Human" by Osamu Dazai is a bleak and introspective novel that delves into the life of Oba Yozo, a character struggling with feelings of alienation and disconnection from society. The book explores themes of loneliness, suicide, and existential dread through Yozo's eyes as he navigates a world where he feels like an outsider. The writing style is described as powerful and impactful, with a narrative that captures the protagonist's internal turmoil and despair in a poignant manner.
I can’t even guess myself what it must be to live the life of a human being. I was born in a village in the Northeast, and it wasn’t until I was quite big that I saw my first train. I climbed up and d... - #10
Save:'The Catcher in the Rye' by J.D. Salinger follows the narrative of sixteen-year-old Holden Caulfield, who has recently been expelled from his fourth boarding school. The story unfolds as Holden decides to spend a night in New York City before facing his parents, showcasing his encounters with old friends, strangers, and his inner turmoil. Through Caulfield's stream of consciousness narration, readers delve into his rebellious and angst-ridden journey, exploring themes of teenage alienation, identity crisis, and the disillusionment with the adult world.
The novel is characterized by a unique writing style that captures the raw emotions and turbulent thoughts of its protagonist. Salinger's portrayal of Holden's inner turmoil and his cynical perspective on society resonates with readers, offering a poignant exploration of adolescent struggles and the quest for authenticity amidst a world perceived as phony.
IF YOU REALLY WANT TO HEAR about it, the first thing you’ll probably want to know is where I was born, and what my lousy childhood was like, and how my parents were occupied and all before they had me...
