The Bonfire of the Vanities question

hi interesting question. Yes I did like Sherman, to my surprise. I wanted him to 'win'. I think it's because his vanity at the start is the MOST ludicrous, the most ridiculous, the most silly really, he is just deluded. He is like one big puffed up balloon ready to pop. But - I had to admit it - there are parts of me in there. The way I love praise, the way I admire my shoes, the way I take pride in certain things. My impatience and judgement of things that lets me feel superior. It is a very 'contermporary' vice and for this reason I think the novel really nails contemporary society - not just the 80s.

And when Sherman's balloon pops, his debasement is so utter and unjust that you can't help but feel for him.

summarising it, I cant say I'd actually like to meet him or spend time with him, but I still basically like him if that makes sense. The one character I really DONT like in the book is Kramer.

Tom Wolfe --for this kind of writing--didn't show up all that well. The novel was readable, but a bit 'strained'; a bit 'forced'. When it comes to elitism, privilege, the-corridors-of-power in New York City--look to an author like Louis Auchincloss. He kicks Wolfe right off the back of the sled.

No,I hate him very much. In no way did I ever find him "likeable". That's not to say I don't feel sympathy for him-- he's a very sympathetic character-- but I most certainly could never imagine myself liking him. I don't like anyone in the story, but I think that's the point. I don't think you're supposed to find yourself liking any characters.