Books matching: moral decay
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- #1
Save:The novel "Cousin Bette" by Honore de Balzac is a complex tale set in 19th century Paris, depicting the intricate relationships and societal norms of the time. The story revolves around Cousin Bette, a spinster who harbors deep resentment towards her wealthy relatives and seeks revenge after feeling betrayed in love. Balzac intricately weaves a narrative filled with jealousy, lust, betrayal, and financial scheming, showcasing the moral decay and greed prevalent in the characters' actions. The book delves into the themes of love, vengeance, and the consequences of selfish choices, portraying a vivid picture of Parisian life during that era.
Hortense’s laughter at this moment was occasioned by a victory she had won over Cousin Bette’s obstinacy. She had just surprised her into making a confession she had been trying to obtain for three ye... - #2
Save:Llewelyn Moss stumbles upon a fortune in drug money near the Texas-Mexico border, setting off a deadly chase involving a drug cartel, a ruthless killer, and the aging Sheriff Bell. The narrative delves into the decay of modern society through Bell's eyes, showcasing McCarthy's unique writing style that mirrors spoken language with a thick Southern accent. The story unfolds with a sense of inevitability, exploring themes of death, violence, and the loss of nature in a brutal, unforgiving landscape.
McCarthy's novel is a gripping tale of survival, morality, and the relentless pursuit of power and money. The characters, including the larger-than-life antagonist Chigurh, are sharply drawn and engage in a battle of wits as they navigate a world where death looms large and the rules of storytelling are upended. The narrative propels forward with sparse, haunting prose that captures the harsh beauty of the West Texas landscape, leaving readers on edge as they witness the characters' fates unfold.
I sent one boy to the gaschamber at Huntsville. One and only one. My arrest and my testimony. I went up there and visited with him two or three times. Three times. The last time was the day of his exe... - #3
Save:Roxana is a tale of a woman who faces abandonment, poverty, and the need for security and control of her own wealth. Through her relationships with various wealthy men in England, France, and the Netherlands, she navigates a life of luxury and intrigue. The story delves into Roxana's moral decay, her struggles with maintaining her reputation, and the consequences of her choices, ultimately leading to a tragic end. The narrative is rich in historical context, showcasing the changing times of the 18th century.
I Was BORN, as my Friends told me, at the City of POICTIERS, in the Province, or County of POICTOU, in France, from whence I was brought to England by my Parents, who fled for their Religion about the... - #4
Save:A House and Its Head by Ivy Compton-Burnett is a novel set in the 1930s that delves into the complex and troubled family dynamics of the Edgeworths. The story revolves around the patriarch, Duncan, a controlling and tyrannical father, and his interactions with his daughters Nance and Sybil, as well as his orphaned nephew. The book primarily unfolds through dialogue, revealing the characters' tensions, resentments, and dark secrets. As the plot progresses, the family faces a series of dramatic events triggered by the death of the mother and Duncan's subsequent remarriage, leading to a downward spiral of behavior and moral complexities.
The writing style of Ivy Compton-Burnett in A House and Its Head is characterized by sharp dialogue akin to a play, allowing the characters to convey their identities and the underlying tensions within the family. Through the use of savage irony and dark humor, the author paints a vivid picture of Edwardian manners and moral complexities, making the novel a compelling exploration of familial relationships and societal expectations.
Duncan Edgeworth was a man of medium height and build, appearing both to others and himself to be tall. He had narrow, grey eyes, stiff, grey hair and beard, a solid, aquiline face, young for his sixt... - #5
Save:Salome by Oscar Wilde is a one act play that reimagines the biblical story of the death of John the Baptist, adding depth and complexity to the characters involved. The plot revolves around Salome's desire for the head of John the Baptist, driven by rejection and unrequited love. Wilde's writing style in this play is a blend of literary and biblical themes, creating a dark and haunting atmosphere filled with obsession, lust, and moral decay. The play is known for its controversial elements and its depiction of Salome as a victim and a victimizer.
"SALOMÉ" has made the author's name a household word wherever the English language is not spoken. Few English plays have such a peculiar history. Written in French in 1892 it was in full rehearsal by ... - #6
Save:A Simple Plan by Scott Smith is a gripping thriller that unravels the lives of two brothers and a friend who stumble upon a crashed airplane containing four million dollars. As they devise a plan to keep the money for themselves, the bonds of friendship and family begin to crack, leading to a series of escalating events driven by greed and desperation. The novel explores how seemingly good people can descend into depravity and murder when faced with the temptation of wealth, all while maintaining a sense of realism and believability in its storytelling.
The plot of A Simple Plan starts off innocently enough but quickly spirals out of control, presenting a snowball effect where a simple decision leads to increasingly dire consequences. With a writing style that is described as fast-paced, suspenseful, and gripping, Scott Smith effectively portrays the moral dilemmas faced by the characters as they grapple with the repercussions of their actions, ultimately creating a dark and chilling narrative that keeps readers on the edge of their seats until the very end.
MY PARENTS died in an automobile accident the year after I was married. They tried to enter I-75 through an exit ramp one Saturday night and crashed head-on into a semi hauling cattle. My father was k... - #7
Save:"Alms For Oblivion Vol I" by Simon Raven is a novel sequence that delves into the lives of morally reprehensible but fascinating characters in the upper classes of the UK. The series combines mystery stories with social satire, offering highly readable narratives that keep the reader engaged. The writing style of Raven is noted for its nostalgic portrayal of the times and its strong relationship with reality, creating an atmosphere that immerses the reader in the world of the fifties and seventies.
The two novels in this volume, set in the early seventies, explore themes of death and morality. Raven's writing is praised for its complex plots, well-rounded characters, and moral purpose. The narrative weaves together elements of debauchery, mayhem, religious emphasis, and ethical dilemmas, making the reader reflect on the actions and motivations of the characters.
- #8
Save:Ambient by Jack Womack is a dystopian novel set in a future America devastated by an economic holocaust and ruled by megacorporations. The story follows O'Malley, a bodyguard for a dysfunctional CEO, in a world where violence, both physical and moral, is common. The narrative is filled with poetic language and a unique dialect used by the characters, creating a dark and engaging atmosphere. The book explores themes of urban decay, environmental protection, and the struggles for survival in a distorted alternate reality.
Jimmy loved Fifth Avenue, the safest route downtown. We rode a Castrolite, twenty-three long, eight across, quite maneuverable when the squeeze drew. We were secure, to a degree; we were used to it. D... - #9
Save:Hellrider by J.G. Faherty is a supernatural revenge story centered around Eddie Ryder, a former bike gang member who is accidentally murdered and returns as a vengeful ghost to seek revenge on those who took his life. The story unfolds in a small town setting, adding an besieged aspect to the plot, with Eddie gradually discovering his supernatural powers amidst a backdrop of action, romance, and exploration of the afterlife.
After another day of almost no business at the garage, of just sitting around twiddling his dick and sweating from the heat, he’d stopped at the Piggly Wiggly on the way home to grab a pack of smokes ... - #10
Save:'Apt Pupil' by Stephen King is a psychological thriller that delves into the dark depths of human nature. The story follows Todd Bowden, a young boy who discovers that his elderly neighbor, Arthur Denker, is actually a former Nazi SS officer named Mr. Dussander. Todd becomes obsessed with learning about the unspeakable crimes committed during World War II and blackmails Dussander into sharing his horrifying war stories. As their twisted relationship unfolds, both characters spiral into madness, revealing the sinister side of humanity. The plot is intense, gripping, and explores themes of evil, manipulation, and the potential for darkness within individuals. The writing style is described as engaging, thought-provoking, and haunting, with a slow but steady pace that showcases the gradual disintegration of Todd's morals and sanity.
He looked like the total all-American kid as he pedaled his twenty-six-inch Schwinn with the apehanger handlebars up the residential suburban street, and that’s just what he was: Todd Bowden, thirteen...
