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Books matching: slow and contemplative pacing

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  1. #1

    The Plains by Gerald Murnane
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    'The Plains' by Gerald Murnane is a perplexing and intricate exploration of a filmmaker's journey to the interior of Australia, referred to as 'The Plains'. The narrator immerses himself in a highly cultured and isolated community known as the Plainsmen, who have a distinct separation from the rest of Australia. The story unfolds as the filmmaker spends two decades in a wealthy landowner's library, attempting to visually interpret the enigmatic landscape of The Plains, all while delving into philosophical musings and complex contemplations on art and existence. The writing style of the book is described as elegant and sophisticated, with a striking prose that weaves together metaphysical themes and mysterious storytelling, leaving readers captivated yet bewildered by the intricate narrative.

    THE dust jacket of the first edition of The Plains describes it as ‘a lament for an Australian literature that has never been written’. Thirty years later this strange, disquieting, curious little boo...

  2. #2

    The Infinities by John Banville
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    'The Infinities' by John Banville is a novel that intertwines the final days of Adam Godley, a mathematician on his death bed, with the mischievous meddling of Greek gods, particularly Hermes, son of Zeus, who narrates most of the tale. The story unfolds as the gods observe and interfere in the lives of the mortal characters, creating a unique blend of family drama and divine intervention. The writing style is described as clever, erudite, and poetic, with rich descriptive language that evokes vivid imagery and a seamless incorporation of Greek mythology into the narrative.

    The plot revolves around a single day where the Godley family gathers to bid farewell to Adam, revealing the complex relationships and emotional baggage of the characters. Banville's narrative technique includes flashbacks and multiple narrators, providing insights into the past and future of the characters. The novel is praised for its tight writing, plausible storytelling, and the exploration of themes like mortality, human frailty, and the interplay between the finite and infinite worlds.

    Of the things we fashioned for them that they might be comforted, dawn is the one that works. When darkness sifts from the air like fine soft soot and light spreads slowly out of the east then all but...

  3. #3

    Italian Shoes - Fredrik WelinBooks by Henning Mankell
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    'Italian Shoes' by Henning Mankell follows the story of Fredrik Welin, a retired surgeon living in isolation on an island off Sweden. The narrative delves into Fredrik's past, his self-imposed exile, and his encounters with various characters from his life, including his former lover and a daughter he never knew he had. As the story unfolds, Fredrik is forced to confront his regrets, past mistakes, and ultimately, his humanity. The writing style intertwines introspection, emotional depth, and vivid descriptions of the Swedish landscape to portray a man's journey towards self-discovery and redemption.


  4. #4

    The Necessity of Rain by Sarah Chorn
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    The Necessity of Rain by Sarah Chorn unfolds in a vividly crafted world where gods and mortals intertwine, exploring themes of grief, healing, and interconnectedness. It follows three main characters, each grappling with profound losses, whose journeys through sorrow and acceptance form the heart of the story. The narrative is non-linear, reflecting the organic nature of life, where emotions bloom and fade like flowers in a garden. Chorn's writing is deeply lyrical and ethereal, creating an immersive experience that emphasizes vulnerability and emotional intensity.

    Chorn's prose uses beautiful metaphors to convey complex emotions and character relationships. The characters are thoughtfully developed, with unique physical traits that mirror their internal struggles. This book resonates with anyone who has experienced loss, using empathy and tenderness to weave a tale of hope amid heartbreak. It combines elements of fantasy and literary fiction, making it a standout work that lingers in the heart and mind, illuminating the human experience with profound insight and creativity.


  5. #5

    The Frolic of the Beasts by Yukio Mishima
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    The Frolic of the Beasts by Yukio Mishima is a darkly brooding story that deals with death, crime, and punishment in a compact setting. The novel follows the uncomfortable coexistence of a young man named Koji, an unhappily married woman named Yuko, and her paralyzed husband Ippei. The story delves into their complex relationships, filled with cruelty, self-hatred, and primal violence, set against the backdrop of a beautiful yet indifferent natural setting of mountains and seaside. Mishima's writing style evokes powerful imagery and creates a psychological collision between the characters, reflecting their pettiness and cruelty in the midst of the serene surroundings.


  6. #6

    Redhead by the Side of the Road by Anne Tyler
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    'Redhead by the Side of the Road' by Anne Tyler is a character-driven novel that follows the life of Micah Mortimer, a self-employed tech expert with a meticulously organized and routine-driven life. The story explores Micah's interactions with his family, his relationships with women, and the unexpected disruptions that challenge his structured existence. Through a series of events, including a surprise visit from a teenager claiming to be his son and his girlfriend's decision to break up with him, Micah is forced to reevaluate his life and relationships. Anne Tyler's writing style is described as simple, comforting, and insightful, with a focus on character development and everyday life experiences.

    YOU HAVE TO WONDER what goes through the mind of a man like Micah Mortimer. He lives alone; he keeps to himself; his routine is etched in stone. At seven fifteen every morning you see him set out on h...

  7. #7

    Trust Exercise by Susan Choi
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    Trust Exercise by Susan Choi is a novel that delves into the lives of high school students at a performing arts school, exploring themes of trust, memory, and the complexities of relationships. The narrative unfolds in three parts, shifting perspectives and timelines, creating a puzzle-like structure that challenges readers to piece together the truth from the characters' differing accounts. The story follows the characters from their teenage years to adulthood, revealing the impact of their shared experiences and the lasting effects of their relationships.

    NEITHER CAN DRIVE. David turns sixteen the following March, Sarah the following April. It is early July, neither one within sight of sixteen and the keys to a car. Eight weeks remain of the summer, a ...

  8. #8

    Olive Juice by T.J. Klune
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    'Olive Juice' by T.J. Klune is a raw and emotional novella that delves deep into the inner lives of the main characters, David and Phillip. The story unfolds over the course of one pivotal evening, revealing the shattered pasts and hidden vulnerabilities of these two men. The author's writing style is described as hauntingly beautiful, capturing the characters' emotions and thoughts with simplicity and rawness. The novella is a unique and heartbreakingly sad story that explores themes of grief, redemption, and the complexities of human nature.

    You die inside, sometimes. These little deaths. It’s how you know you’re still living. That hurt, that damnable pain in your chest that never really goes away, is meant to burn to show you that you’re...

  9. 'The World According to Mister Rogers: Important Things to Remember' by Fred Rogers is a collection of simple thoughts and philosophical viewpoints shared by the beloved Mr. Rogers. contains various sayings and insights on life, love, kindness, and emotions, presented in a concise and easy-to-digest format. Readers appreciate the wisdom and compassion expressed by Fred Rogers through his writings, making it a valuable daily reader and keepsake for people of all ages.


  10. #10

    Veronika Decides to Die - On The Seventh Day by Paulo Coelho
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    Veronika Decides to Die by Paulo Coelho follows the story of a young woman named Veronika who attempts suicide but wakes up in a mental hospital instead. She is informed that her suicide attempt has damaged her heart irreparably, giving her only a few days to live. Throughout her time in the hospital, she learns about life, love, and the importance of living fully. The book delves into themes of mortality, mental health, and the meaning of life, all while exploring the internal struggles and growth of the characters. The writing style is thought-provoking and philosophical, with a focus on introspection and self-discovery.

    On 11 November 1997, Veronika decided that the moment to kill herself had—at last!—arrived. She carefully cleaned the room that she rented in a convent, turned off the heating, brushed her teeth and l...

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