Books matching: self destruction and tragedy
13 result(s)
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- #1
Save:The Basketball Diaries by Jim Carroll is a raw and intense autobiographical account of Jim's teenage years in 1970s New York City, where he navigates the challenges of drug addiction, basketball dreams, and self-destruction. Through vivid and poetic writing, Carroll delves into the dark and gritty realities of his life, showcasing a journey filled with highs and lows, humor, and tragedy. The book captures the essence of growing up amidst addiction and the struggle to find oneself in the midst of chaos, making it a compelling and impactful read for readers of all ages.
Today was my first Biddy League game and my first day in any organized basketball league. I'm enthused about life due to this exciting event. The Biddy League is a league for anyone 12 yrs. old or und... - #2
Save:'Miss Julie' by August Strindberg is a play that delves into the complexities of societal norms, class struggles, and gender roles during the late 19th century. The story follows the aristocratic woman, Miss Julie, as she engages in a forbidden romance with her servant, Jean, leading to a series of tragic events. The play is known for its robust characterizations, crisp dialogues, and exploration of themes such as misogyny, social diseases, and the consequences of societal expectations on individuals.
The writing style of 'Miss Julie' is described as tight, complex, brilliant, and disturbing, capturing the essence of the class struggles and emotional turmoil of the characters. Strindberg's play is recognized as a classic work that provides valuable insights into the changing women roles and the challenges faced by individuals in a society bound by rigid conventions.
- #3
Save:Children of Light by Robert Stone is a novel set in Hollywood, exploring the lives of spiritually lost characters amidst the glamour and madness of the film industry. The story delves into themes of regret, sorrow, and madness, portraying a dark and destructive love story. Stone's writing style is described as exquisitely crafted, with deep insight into the characters and their struggles, while also offering a painfully lucid depiction of the filmmaking process. The novel is a blend of tragedy and beauty, showcasing the characters' struggles with addiction, insanity, and selfishness in a harshly beautiful world.
Waking, he saw aqueous light on the blue-white ceiling—the morning sun reflected from the swimming pool just outside the window. The moment he raised his head the poison struck; thirst, nausea, a barb... - #4
Save:'Outerbridge Reach' by Robert Stone follows the story of Owen Browne, a middle-class Vietnam veteran who embarks on an around-the-world solo sailing race in search of greater things. As Owen navigates the challenges of the race, the novel delves into themes of adventure, madness, and the darkness that resides within the human heart. Alongside Owen's journey, the story also explores the complexities of relationships, betrayal, and confronting personal demons, particularly through the characters of Owen's wife, Anne, and a documentary filmmaker named Strickland. The plot weaves together elements of tragedy, existential introspection, and the American spirit of resilience, culminating in a riveting and emotionally charged narrative that captivates the reader.
The writing style of 'Outerbridge Reach' is described as beautifully transparent, effectively capturing themes of solitude, fear, and the imagination. The author skillfully navigates between vivid scenes ashore and afloat, enticing the reader with a strong story that illuminates the struggles and desires of the characters. Despite the dark and sometimes depressing undertones of the novel, the writing maintains an engaging quality that draws the reader into the inner turmoil and external challenges faced by the characters.
THAT WINTER was the warmest in a hundred years. There were uneasy jokes about the ozone layer and the greenhouse effect. The ambiguity of the weather made time seem slack and the year spineless. The a... - #5
Save:'The Malady of Death' by Marguerite Duras is a novella that delves into the tragic story of a man who hires a woman to spend time with him in an attempt to learn how to love. The woman, although not a prostitute, agrees to the arrangement, and through their interactions, it becomes evident that the man is incapable of feeling love. The book explores themes of loneliness, control, and the inability to connect emotionally, all conveyed through Duras' poetic and thought-provoking writing style. The narrative unfolds with short, impactful sentences that provide a glimpse into the inner turmoil of the characters, making the reader contemplate the complexities of human emotions and relationships.
Duras' writing style in 'The Malady of Death' is described as lulling yet thought-provoking, with short sentences that stir interest and evoke deep reflection. The book offers a unique exploration of the human experience, particularly focusing on the tragedy of being unable to love or be loved. Through the interactions between the man and the woman, Duras crafts a narrative that is both haunting and beautiful, shedding light on the complexities of desire, intimacy, and emotional connection in a concise yet profound manner.
'Trouble Boys: The True Story of the Replacements' by Bob Mehr delves into the turbulent journey of the band, showcasing their self-destructive behaviors, missed opportunities, and raw, poetic music. Through meticulous research and interviews with band members, Mehr paints a vivid portrait of the Replacements' rise and fall, highlighting the troubled backgrounds of the Stinson brothers, the dynamics within the band, and the enigmatic figure of Paul Westerberg. The narrative captures the essence of rock 'n' roll, filled with heartbreak, tragedy, and the relentless pursuit of artistic expression amidst chaos.
- #7
Save:The Picture of Dorian Gray by Oscar Wilde is a classic tale exploring the consequences of vanity and moral degradation. The story follows Dorian Gray, a young man who makes a Faustian deal to retain his youth and beauty while his portrait ages and reflects the consequences of his debauched lifestyle. The novel delves into themes of the value of youth, the meaning of life, and the impact of one's actions on oneself and others, leaving readers pondering questions of free will and self-improvement. Wilde's writing style is described as brilliant, witty, and horrifying, with a focus on decadence, morality, and the consequences of one's choices.
The studio was filled with the rich odour of roses, and when the light summer wind stirred amidst the trees of the garden there came through the open door the heavy scent of the lilac, or the more del... - #8
Save:"Wuthering Heights" by Emily Bronte is a dark and complex tale of a convoluted and tragic love story between Heathcliff and Catherine. Set against the haunting moors of England, the novel blurs the line between passion and obsession, delving into themes of vengeance, societal expectations, and human nature. The book portrays a cast of flawed and complex characters, with relationships marred by cruelty, revenge, and unfulfilled desires. The writing style is described as gothic, mysterious, and enthralling, with a moody atmosphere that matches the bleak setting of the moors.
The narrative unfolds through multiple generations, showcasing the consequences of love and revenge that reverberate through time. Despite the challenging writing style and complex characters, the story captivates readers with its haunting and chilling portrayal of characters not likely to be called sane in the modern world. The book challenges traditional values and beliefs, questioning the dark side of English and Western culture, making readers reflect on psychological and gothic elements in the narrative.
1801.—I have just returned from a visit to my landlord—the solitary neighbour that I shall be troubled with. This is certainly a beautiful country! In all England, I do not believe that I could have f... - #9
Save:The Iceman Cometh by Eugene O'Neill is a tragic and beautiful portrayal of a group of struggling men who gather at a local saloon full of big dreams but lacking in action. The play revolves around a salesman named Hickey who forces the individuals to reevaluate their lives, leading to introspection and questioning of their aspirations. Set in the early 20th century New York City, the characters' delusions and pipe dreams are explored in a comical, pathetic, and sympathetic manner. O'Neill's writing captures the hopelessness and disillusionment prevalent during the Great Depression, providing a poignant reflection on the crumbling American dream.
- #10
Save:'Oblomov' by Ivan Goncharov is a classic Russian novel that delves into the life of the protagonist, Oblomov, who is known for his extreme laziness and reluctance to engage in any form of activity. The plot revolves around Oblomov's struggles with everyday tasks, his relationships with other characters like Stolz and Olga, and his internal dilemmas. The writing style of the book is described as languorous, thorough, and discursive, capturing the essence of 19th-century Russian literature with detailed descriptions and deep character exploration.
ILYA ILYITCH OBLOMOV was lying in bed one morning in his flat in Gorohovy Street, in one of the big houses that had almost as many inhabitants as a whole country town. He was a man of thirty-two or -t...
