When I first picked up this book, I was chiefly interested because the author was an athiest. I was subsequently surprised to find the story enthralling. Entrenched in the banality of modern life, but punctuated with pathetic attempts at romance and art, the main character struggles through the story in a confused and quietly desperate manner. The writing is lucid and raw, though very intelligent. The melancholy is well hidden under the events of the story. I don't know if I really enjoyed the book, but like the protagonist (who is handicapped) it limps to a satisfactory--if somewhat cold--conclusion. I haven't said much to recommend the book, but it is certainly interesting.