mlerch

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mlerch

mlerch’s book reviews

I'm a huge fan of classical literature and I know this is a classic. Having said that, although I am a fan of 98% of what is considered classic, I simply do not enjoy this work. Whenever that happens I consider it to be a lack of comprehension on my part, because after all - it's a classic!

What happens in this book? Dorian has a painting made of him. His psyche spirals downward but is manifest by the deterioration of the painting, apparently not him. That's about it folks.

There are far too many deeply penetrating studies of the human psyche to spend your time on. Reach for a Russian classic. Reach for something, but I'd move this one to the bottom of the stack.
06/02/2008
This is one of the great literary classics of all time. It's unfortunate that so many are intimidated by the size of this book, especially in paperback. But do yourself a favor and read this - the unabridged version that is!

Hugo is a master storyteller. The tale drifts from mystery, suspense, murder, intrigue, drama, philosophy, history, politics and the divisions of the human heart.

Read the book before seeing the musical. In a way it's unfortunate the musical became such a big hit because I think it has kept people away from the book. It is vastly superior, of course.

This book is probably among my top five favorite tales of all time.
06/01/2008