Quinn MacDougald answers “Is it better than The Corrections and...”

Michael asked this question about Purity:

Is it better than The Corrections and Freedom?

Quinn MacDougald I think it goes Freedom> Corrections> Purity.
I devoured all three in quick succession over the past month and a half. The prose of the Corrections I…moreI think it goes Freedom> Corrections> Purity.
I devoured all three in quick succession over the past month and a half. The prose of the Corrections I think is by far the best - not just of the three, but one of the eloquent and beautiful books I've ever come across. Freedom had the best story line, thematic elements, character development, and to me is overall the most satisfying read. If I was going to recommend one to the Franzen newcomer it would be Freedom.

That being said, I think enjoyed Purity most. Franzen's books are thematically topical and critically pointed outward toward the world in which they were written. I think of Franzen's greatest talents is his ability to articulate things you already were unconsciously aware of, and he is particularly adept at capturing the zeitgeist of post-modern America, which of course changes with each novel. Not that any of his works have an expiration date, but like most works I think they are likely best enjoyed fresh. (less)

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