Questions About Midnight Cowboy

Reader Q&A

To ask other readers questions about Midnight Cowboy, please sign up.

Answered Questions (1)

How does the novel compare to the movie?

Joe The movie begins at the halfway point of the novel. So, Joe Buck's entire back story that explains who he is and why he is and the experiences that br…moreThe movie begins at the halfway point of the novel. So, Joe Buck's entire back story that explains who he is and why he is and the experiences that bring him to NYC are briefly touched upon using awkward and confusing flashbacks that are not entirely faithful to the novel.

It does a great job of showing how naïve and trusting Joe is but it doesn't truly capture the sense of loneliness, sadness, and confusion Joe experiences. Nor does it capture his overwhelming need for connection—not physical connection but human connection. The novel nails this to perfect, heartbreaking effect.

I also found the Joe/Ratso relationship in the movie had some homoerotic undertones to it that are not present in the novel. Ratso is like Joe—lonely, confused, scared and also seeking human connection. A chosen family, if you will, that he finds in Joe.

Also, the thoughts going through Joe's head in the novel as deathly ill Ratso lies besides him on the bus ride to Florida will break your heart.

Outside of the that, the movie is good and pretty faithful to the second half of the novel. it deserves the accolades that it received. If you've never seen the movie, I would suggest reading the novel first because it will make clear a lot of the scenes and actions as you watch the movie.(less)

flag

Unanswered Questions

About Goodreads Q&A

Ask and answer questions about books!

You can pose questions to the Goodreads community with Reader Q&A, or ask your favorite author a question with Ask the Author.

See Featured Authors Answering Questions

Learn more