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Pynchon on the origins of America (boundary disputes, litigation, paranoia, servitude -- of and by), camaraderie, and were-beavers. The 18th century time frame (and style, and references) makes this often a much more obscure affair for me than more recent and recently-set Pynchon (Against the Day and Inherent Vice). As such its endlessly digressive fish stories are as occasionally brilliant as they are occasionally trying. Somewhat spotty but impressive.
such a beautiful book.
impossible to write about. seems like pynchon knows all the words and how to make them do all the things. there's also something in pynchon that defies re-telling. there is a constant shifting of comprehension. i hate to use drugs as a metaphor, but you know that moment when you're under the influence and you think you've figured it all out but then the next day when you wake up you're right back to knowing nothing? this is that. any grasp or foothold in the text is tempora ...more
impossible to write about. seems like pynchon knows all the words and how to make them do all the things. there's also something in pynchon that defies re-telling. there is a constant shifting of comprehension. i hate to use drugs as a metaphor, but you know that moment when you're under the influence and you think you've figured it all out but then the next day when you wake up you're right back to knowing nothing? this is that. any grasp or foothold in the text is tempora ...more
Pynchon certainly seems to write for himself. To amuse himself. Amusing and amusement are words that came to mind page in page out reading this. Never quite hilarious or disturbing. The novel ambles along across at least three continents filled with enough characters to house twenty novels. It's mode is one of harmless ambling, rambling and tittering like an inverse anodyne correction of Conrad's heart of darkness. Not that there are not scenes of pitch darkness and dark questions posed around c
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"Stunning. Possibly the pinnacle of writing. A moving work with riches to be found on so many levels. Gorgeous writing and an enjoyable read. However, the writing is very difficult, the story is all over the place, and it is very long. Work your way up to this book, take your time reading it, and you won't be disappointed! An incredible journey and adventure."
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simply my favorite book ever.
Feb 25, 2010
Jason
marked it as to-read
Mar 12, 2021
Austin
marked it as to-read
Mar 03, 2010
Justin Griffin
marked it as to-read
Jan 05, 2012
Madeleine
marked it as to-read
