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Books matching: youth and beauty

33 result(s)

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Showing 1 - 10 of 33 
  1. #1

    The Picture of Dorian Gray by Oscar Wilde
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    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...

  2. #2

    Sun and Steel by Yukio Mishima
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    'Sun and Steel' by Yukio Mishima is a unique exploration of aesthetics, physicality, and self-obsession. Mishima's writing style, though somewhat unnatural due to translation, delves deep into contrasting concepts of beauty and ugliness, offering a perplexing journey into the mind of an undoubtedly impressive yet deeply troubled individual. The book provides insights into Mishima's philosophy of life, presenting a convoluted and disturbing glimpse into a fractured psyche that is both fascinating and troubling.

    I see it as a twilight genre between the night of confession and the daylight of criticism. The “I” with which I shall occupy myself will not be the “I” that relates back strictly to myself, but somet...

  3. #3
    Hallowe'en Party
    Book 36 in the series:Hercule Poirot

    Hallowe'en Party - Hercule Poirot by Agatha Christie
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    Hallowe'en Party by Agatha Christie revolves around a murder mystery that takes place at a Halloween party in a small town. The story follows Hercule Poirot and his interactions with Ariadne Oliver, a mystery writer, as they investigate the murder of a young girl who claimed to have witnessed a murder prior to her own death. The plot is filled with twists and turns, involving hidden connections and unsolved cases, leading to a surprising resolution. The writing style is described as engaging, with references to other Agatha Christie novels and Greek mythology, creating a complex and intriguing storyline that keeps the reader guessing until the end.

    At the moment it was a scene of chaotic activity. Energetic women came in and out of doors moving chairs, small tables, flower vases, and carrying large quantities of yellow pumpkins which they dispos...

    (Also, see 100 recommendations for the series Hercule Poirot )

  4. #4

    By Nightfall by Michael Cunningham
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    By Nightfall by Michael Cunningham is a novel that delves into the life of Peter Harris, a middle-aged art dealer in Manhattan. His seemingly normal life with his wife, Rebecca, and their daughter takes a turn when Rebecca's younger brother, Mizzy, enters the picture. Peter finds himself drawn to Mizzy, leading to a series of events that challenge his relationships and perceptions of beauty. The narrative explores themes of beauty, love, self-discovery, and the complexities of human relationships, all set against the backdrop of the New York art world.

    One of the inscrutable old horses that pull tourist carriages has been hit by a car somewhere up on Broadway, which has stopped traffic all the way down to the Port Authority, which is making Peter an...

  5. #5

    After Leaving Mr. Mackenzie by Jean Rhys
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    "After Leaving Mr. Mackenzie" by Jean Rhys follows the story of Julia Martin, a woman in her thirties who has relied on men for financial support due to her fading looks. When her lover Mr. Mackenzie abandons her, Julia is left struggling to survive in Paris. The novel delves into Julia's desperate attempts to make ends meet by contacting old lovers and seeking help from her family, all while grappling with her diminishing power and loneliness. Jean Rhys' writing style is described as spare, cutting, and truthful, providing a raw and honest portrayal of Julia's bleak existence.


  6. #6

    Carol by Patricia Highsmith
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    Carol by Patricia Highsmith is a classic lesbian romance novel set in the 1950s, following the story of a shopgirl named Therese who falls in love with a married woman named Carol. The book explores themes of love, obsession, and societal expectations, presenting a realistic and happy ending for the main characters. Highsmith's writing style is described as beautifully written, atmospheric, and frank about same-sex attraction, offering a refreshing approach to lesbian relationships in literature.


  7. #7

    Death in Venice by Thomas Mann
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    Death in Venice by Thomas Mann is a novella that delves into the life of Gustav von Aschenbach, an aging writer who embarks on a journey to Venice in search of spiritual fulfillment. However, his trip takes a dark turn as he becomes obsessed with an exquisite Polish boy named Tadzio. As Aschenbach's obsession grows, he grapples with themes of eroticism, decay, and the battle between the mind and body. The narrative explores the protagonist's descent into obsession and eventual doom, set against the backdrop of a decaying Venice plagued by an unnamed epidemic. Mann's writing style is described as beautiful, deep, and thought-provoking, with a focus on themes of beauty, loneliness, and the complexities of human emotions.

    The book is a blend of brilliant storytelling, poetic genius, and emotional depth that captivates readers with its exploration of obsession, longing, and the fragility of human desires. Mann's portrayal of Aschenbach's internal struggles and his gradual mental decay mirrors the physical decay of Venice, creating a haunting and atmospheric narrative that leaves a lasting impact on the reader.

    GUSTAV ASCHENBACH (or von Aschenbach, as his name read officially since his fiftieth birthday), on a spring afternoon of that year 19—which for months posed such a threat to our continent, had left hi...

  8. #8

    Super Sad True Love Story by Gary Shteyngart
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    In 'Super Sad True Love Story' by Gary Shteyngart, readers are taken on a journey through a dystopian future America where materialism, social media, and global financial crises shape the society. The novel follows the love story between an aging protagonist, Lenny, and a materialistic young woman, Eunice, as they navigate a world obsessed with technology and consumerism. The writing style incorporates a mix of diary entries, text messages, and chat logs to provide a glimpse into the characters' inner thoughts and relationships, offering a satirical commentary on modern life and relationships.

    Others will die around me. They will be nullified. Nothing of their personality will remain. The light switch will be turned off. Their lives, their entirety, will be marked by glossy marble headstone...

  9. #9

    Roxana by Daniel Defoe
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    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...

  10. #10

    The Rules of Attraction by Bret Easton Ellis
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    Set in the 1980s on a New England college campus, 'The Rules of Attraction' follows a period in the lives of Lauren, Paul, and Sean who get caught up in a love triangle. The book explores a bisexual love triangle filled with misinformation, misidentity, self-obsession, emotional blackmail, immaturity, substance abuse, and a lack of self-respect among privileged college students. The narrative style shifts between different characters' perspectives, offering insight into their personalities and relationships, often highlighting their delusions and self-inflicted struggles.

    The story unfolds through multiple narrators, showcasing the same events from vastly different viewpoints, creating a Rashomon-like quality that delves into the complexities of personal relationships and individual interpretations. The novel provides an interesting study on how navigating personal relationships can be challenging, especially in an environment saturated with alcohol, drugs, and youthful beauty, resonating with college students across generations.

    SEAN The party is starting to end. I get to Windham House right when the last keg is being tapped. The deal in town went okay and I have some cash so I buy some weed from this Freshman who lives in th...

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