2666: A Novel
by Roberto Bolano
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Book Reviews of 2666: A Novel
Book Review: Exciting, eccentric and ever long but worth it
Summary: 4 Stars
Roberto Balano's last work has the potential to be one of the best books I have read in my life thus far. Let me say this up front. This is not a book for the casual reader of DeMille or Grisham. It's dense with character development, social and literal esoteric references, and written in a style that allows one to appreciate the language. I only wish I knew Spanish.
Without giving away the farm, the parts of the book are related but not in a way one would think. From literature students to Mexican serial killings and WWII, I sometimes thought well now how the hell is this going to turn out. But it does turn out to be well intertwined and there are just some things that you don't see coming.
My opinion without taking away from the novel at all or the author's talent, is that there could have been some minor editing done as some of it could have been left out as the point was made. BUT it does serve as a vehicle for some of the characters within the novel.
This is one of the books that I have to read again in a couple of years. It's so dense, if you only read it once I think you will miss alot and I am sure I did and I read closely(not literally :-) )
Word to the easily offended - there is some language in here that some people may find offensive - I didn't but some may - not for younger readers in my opinion
Book Review: First time Bolano Reader
Summary: 5 Stars
Finished this book last night, could have read 5 more parts about whatever the author had on his mind. I can understand that this book is not for everyone. The first part may have people wondering if this book is only going to be about people with PHDs in Literature (its not, nor is the 1st part itself). The 2nd part can drag a little and seemed the most out of focus, but I guess that works thematically because its about people losing their minds. The 3rd part is silky smooth (once you get past the protagonist being named Fate) and does a great job of bringing the dread (also loved the former black panther's speech). The 4th part is very brutal, reminded me a little of Cormac McCarthy but just a touch more light hearted if that makes any sense. The fifth part is just really good. Taken as a whole this book is quite an achievement. Was really impressed with moments of the book where Bolano seemed to briefly show his hand and speak to the reader directly about what he was attempting to do with this book, one such section is highlighted in end notes of the first edition that I read. If you are an adventurous reader willing to put in the time I doubt you will be disappointed. I am looking forward to reading more of his books but I am going to wait a bit unitl I shake this one.Book Review: New Directions in Literature
Summary: 5 Stars
This is, simply put, My Favorite book. Roberto Bolano worked very hard to get to this point. I read most of his books, and it shows how he was walking the path to get to this point, in which he embraces all different styles of writing and storytelling. The subject and stories are very relevant to our times. He makes philosophical and political statements in a very elegant way, and never forgetting about good humor. I know about people that found the book to be a little disturbing, I believe that it has to do with the fact the Mr. Bolano can be very crude at times. He also reflects what was going on at the time that he was writing the book. One of the cities that is portrayed in the book could be Juarez in Mexico, chances are it is really Juarez, one of the most violent cities of the world. So definitely the book can get very disturbing. On the other hand, Bolano has an impeccable control of the language and style so whatever the subject he is writing about he will still do it in a way that will penetrate and nurture your intellect while your heart will be inundated with emotions. Quite a feast and and enormous literature achievement!
He erases borders in styles and formats. Hopefully all artists can learn from his approach to literature and take a step forward.
Book Review: Honor to whom honor is due
Summary: 5 Stars
One would generally not consider a long novel to be a concise novel, but there appears to be a very economical use of words in this 898 page masterpiece. No deadwood here I am happy to report. Five stories in one like an opened hand with four fingers and the story of the killings of young women in Santa Teresea being the opposable thumb that holds it all together.
Bolano has erected a lasting monument to the memory of all those who have faced untimely death and those who have lost loved ones to untimely death. In his description of Archimboldi the writer and the critics and followers of Archimboldi, Bolano honors those who write and those who read great literature: "what a relief to give up literature, to give up writing and simply read." (Hardcover Edition, page 788)
Perhaps hanging an unfamiliar geometry book on an outdoor clothesline is a good way to exorcise the world of demons, monsters, and evil men and institutions. Perhaps it just convinces your daughter that you have a loose screw in your head while you worry that she might become a victim of homicide in a dangerous city in Mexico.
You will probably want to share this book with friends and family or even buy more than one copy. It will become a classic.
Book Review: Quite a summer read
Summary: 4 Stars
I purchased this novel to read last summer because, frankly, I'm sick of formulaic mystery and detective stories. This work appeared to be lengthy, academic; intellectually challenging.
To my surprise, it is indeed a very complex mystery, detective story, as well as a highly personal work of imagination and literature. The plot was disjointed but all came together in the final part. There was a lot of repetition when describing the murders of women in Mexico; one ritual killing after another. Oddly, the reader did not become numb with these similar gruesome anecdotes, but became sorrowful and sympathetic to the friends and family of these unsuspecting women snared in an evil trap.
The first part is humorous and subtly makes fun of academia. The elusive author Benno von Archimboldi is at the center of the lives of young intellectuals searching for recognition and prestige as experts of Archimboldi's great works of literature. This cadre of known experts have never actually seen, or corresponded with Archimboldi. [He is revealed to us in a later part of the book.]
Bolano's work was a satisfying literary undertaking for the summer. One of the great works of contemporary literature.